Sex Trafficking

Sex trafficking is a form of human trafficking in which individuals are exploited for the purposes of commercial sex. This can include prostitution, as well as other forms of sexual exploitation such as pornography or exotic dancing. Victims of sex trafficking are often coerced or forced into the sex trade, and may be threatened or physically harmed if they try to leave. Being trafficked for sex is a global problem and can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It is important to recognize the signs of sex trafficking and to report any suspected cases to the appropriate authorities.

Anyone can be vulnerable to sex trafficking, although certain groups are at higher risk. This includes individuals who are marginalized or disadvantaged due to factors such as poverty, lack of education, and lack of access to opportunities. It also includes individuals who have experienced trauma, such as sexual abuse or domestic violence, as well as those who are struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues. Additionally, certain populations may be particularly vulnerable to sex trafficking, such as undocumented immigrants, individuals who are homeless or living in shelters, and individuals who are involved in the child welfare or foster care systems. Sex traffickers often target individuals who are vulnerable and may be less likely to report the abuse or seek help.

If you or someone you know is a victim, there are several steps you can take to get help. The first and most important step is to reach out for support from trusted friends, family members, or professionals who can provide assistance and guidance. This may include contacting a hotline or crisis center that specializes in assisting victims, or reaching out to law enforcement for help. It is also important to seek medical care and support for any physical or psychological trauma that you may have experienced as a result of the trafficking. You can also contact organizations that specialize in providing services to victims of sex trafficking, such as victim advocacy groups, legal organizations, and social service agencies. These organizations can provide you with information, support, and assistance as you navigate the process of recovery.

Don’t Let Politicians & Big Tech Manipulate Your Concern for Children
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Don’t Let Politicians & Big Tech Manipulate Your Concern for Children

Child trafficking is real; it’s an incredibly heavy issue; and it’s universally abhorrent. Many people, like you, want to see children protected. People in positions of power understand this and are using it to try to manipulate the public for their own gain. This is not new. However, over the last several months, we’ve seen…

Conducting Anti-Trafficking Work Using a Racial Equity Lens
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Conducting Anti-Trafficking Work Using a Racial Equity Lens

Recently, there was a request for information made by the US State Department’s Office to Combat Trafficking in Persons. The Senior Policy Operating Group (SPOG) asked for input from key stakeholders and community members on how it can advance racial justice and equity in work combatting human trafficking. We’re glad this request was made, and…

For IGDA members, a new training benefit appears!
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For IGDA members, a new training benefit appears!

International Game Developers Association Membership ups their game PBJ Learning, a leading provider of online human trafficking awareness and prevention education courses for professionals and schools, and the International Game Developers Association, announce that the membership of IGDA can now receive a significant discount on Human Trafficking Essentials as part of their benefits package.  “PBJ…

Stories you may have missed: refugees and human trafficking; alleged shelter abuse; and trafficking tattoo coverups
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Stories you may have missed: refugees and human trafficking; alleged shelter abuse; and trafficking tattoo coverups

We are so fortunate to have people send us stories of the day (and the past), and we want to have a place to feature them. This is our first edition of “Stories you may have missed:” Let us know what you think. Should we do more?  How the sex trade preys on Ukraine’s refugees…

REVIEW: Award-winning “Groomed” short film about human trafficking
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REVIEW: Award-winning “Groomed” short film about human trafficking

Every day, everywhere, hundreds of thousands of children are being ‘groomed’. Will you be prepared when traffickers try to target you or your loved ones?

REVIEW: Unbound – Identifying & Responding to Human Trafficking: Commercial Lodging & Hospitality Industry
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REVIEW: Unbound – Identifying & Responding to Human Trafficking: Commercial Lodging & Hospitality Industry

A video version of a slideshow that provides a certificate after the video. No testing required.

Power Your Parenting Podcast
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Power Your Parenting Podcast

The episode today is hard to hear but very important. It reminds us that the daily battle over the phone and internet are worth it because our teens (especially girls) are being stalked. Our guests today are Andrea Perry and Jeff Keith they both work at Guardian Group and are both committed to reducing human…

Special Edition: 2022 Iowa Anti-Trafficking Heroes
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Special Edition: 2022 Iowa Anti-Trafficking Heroes

2022 Iowa Outstanding Service Awards The Iowa Network Against Human Trafficking and Slavery recently presented five 2022 Outstanding Iowa Anti-Trafficking Service Awards. The presentations took place at the Rotunda of the Iowa State Capitol Building in Des Moines, Iowa. I was honored to stand at the podium to read the tribute to each outstanding honoree….