Suggestions for actions From USCCB How to Help Fight Human Trafficking

Suggestions for actions From USCCB

How to Help Fight Human Trafficking

Be Informed

  • Visit our "About Human Trafficking" page to educate yourself about the issue of human trafficking and learn about the Catholic Church's teaching on this subject.  
  • Download the National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month toolkit
  • Sign up for our newsletter

Be Involved

  • Become a SHEPHERD and lead your parish or community group to fight human trafficking in your area.
  • Join an anti-trafficking coalition or group in your city. 
  • Pray for the safety of the vulnerable.

Be an Ethical Consumer and Employer

Spread the Word

  • Help us reach your community.  For resources or to request technical assistance, training or consultancy services, contact Anti-Trafficking Services at mrstraff@usccb.org

Be Observant

Notice these Indicators of Human Trafficking:

Signs of being controlled

  • No identification documents
  • Unable to leave job or residence
  • Not in control of their own finances 
  • Is under 18 and provides commercial sex acts
  • At any age unwillingly provides commercial sex acts
  • Is afraid of law enforcement or receiving help
  • In a relationship with someone who is dominating
  • Never is alone and/or always has someone translating or answering questions on their behalf

Signs of trauma

  • Inconsistent details when telling their story
  • Seems anxious, fearful or paranoid;  avoids eye contact
  • Tearfulness or signs of depression
  • Unexplained bruises or cuts or other signs of physical abuse
  • Is evasive or unable to answer questions about where they live

Take Action

  • If you or someone you know has experienced any of these indicators call the National Human Trafficking Hotline 1-888-373-7888 or text the hotline's BeFree textline: Text "BeFree" (233733).
  • If you need more guidance on reporting potential cases of trafficking, you can call and talk through the case with USCCB Anti-Trafficking program staff at 202.541.3357. (Please note, this line is for seeking guidance on trafficking concerns only.)
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