Louisiana

Situated in the Deep South, Louisiana, the “Pelican State,” has a colorful history and was named in honor of King Louis XIV. A strong French influence is still evident throughout the state–its capital city is named Baton Rouge, French for “red stick,” because the French-Canadian explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville visited the area in 1699 and observed a red cypress post. Today the city of New Orleans is known for its Mardi Gras and jazz festivals.

Human trafficking is a serious issue that affects people all around the world, including in Louisiana. It is a form of modern slavery in which individuals are exploited for labor, sexual exploitation, or other purposes.

According to data from the National Human Trafficking Hotline, Louisiana has consistently ranked among the top states in the United States for the number of human trafficking cases reported. In 2020, the state ranked sixth in the country for the number of cases reported to the hotline, with a total of 123 cases.

Human trafficking can take many forms in Louisiana, including forced labor, domestic servitude, and sexual exploitation. It often affects vulnerable populations, such as immigrants, children, and people who are homeless or in poverty.

If you suspect that someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, there are steps you can take to help. You can report the situation to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or by text at 233733. You can also contact local law enforcement or a trusted organization that provides services to victims of human trafficking. It is important to remember that the safety of the victim should be the top priority and to handle the situation with care and sensitivity.