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
- Find out how your actions contribute to or reduce the demand for human trafficking.
- Websites like www.slaveryfootprint.org, www.knowthechain.org or the Sweat & Toil, can be good places to start.
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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