Now that you've learned about
what human trafficking is,
how it happens, who the
victims and traffickers are and
why it's important to know
the story, what's next?
Sex and labor trafficking don't happen in a vacuum.
These are the predictable end
result of other societal ills such
as poverty and trauma.
These, in turn, are themselves often
the end results of other
entrenched realities and attitudes.
All forms of discrimination,
oppression and corruption.
Rather than focusing solely on arresting
traffickers, we can help stop trafficking
before it happens. To change the
trafficking landscape, we have to come
up with strategies to change
the systems that allow it to happen.
Polaris is working towards these changes.
It's a long game, but it matters.
We have to put power
back in the hands of workers.
We have to come together
to support strong families, equitable
economies, healthy communities where
everyone has an equal chance to thrive.
We have to include programs
and policies that address
homelessness and housing insecurity,
protect workers and prevent
incarcerated people from exploitation.
Now that you've done the work
of educating yourself, what can
you do to fight human
trafficking and support victims and
survivors of sex and labor trafficking?
Debunk the myths and stereotypes by
listening to survivors. They are
the real experts on human trafficking.
Understand proximity and context
and have hard conversations with friends
and family when you are concerned.
Rather than simply knowing about the
signs, focus on understanding the real story.
Stop using sensationalistic images
or talking about "rescuing" or
"saving" people. We should be here
to support survivors as they
make their own way to freedom.
Support legislation and organizations
working to change the conditions
that make trafficking possible
in the first place.
You have taken the first step by
taking this training.
You are part of the solution.
We cannot do it without you.