January has been designated as National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, with local authorities stressing the importance of public education in preventing this heinous crime.

Hidalgo County’s Stand Against Human Trafficking

Hidalgo County officials have made a strong statement that human trafficking will not be tolerated. A proclamation was passed in the District Attorney’s office, marking January as a month of heightened awareness and action against the inhuman practice.

The Difference Between Smuggling and Trafficking

One of the common misconceptions about human trafficking is that it is synonymous with human smuggling. In reality, victims of trafficking do not necessarily have to be transported across borders. Trafficking can occur within the boundaries of one’s home, sometimes even perpetrated by family members.

Support and Resources for the Victims

Various resources are accessible to survivors of human trafficking. Specialized care is provided to victims of sexual assault, an unfortunate subset of trafficking victims. This includes individuals from all walks of life, as trafficking is a crime that does not discriminate.

The Role of Social Media

Social media platforms have become a common medium for traffickers to target potential victims. For more information or to report potential trafficking situations, the public is encouraged to contact the Hidalgo County DA’s Office or their local authorities.

Prevention and Education

According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, over 18,000 child trafficking cases were reported in 2023 alone. As such, the emphasis on prevention and education during the National Human Trafficking Awareness Month is more crucial than ever. The public is urged to learn about the signs of trafficking and where to seek help, playing a vital role in the fight against this form of modern slavery.