Human trafficking is a topic that has been highlighted in recent news tremendously because it has been impacting many and has been spreading in its affect. According to the Department of Homeland Security (2024), it is a $150 billion industry and growing. Unfortunately, Anti-Trafficking International (2024) reports that less than 1% of victims are identified. Much of this has to do with lack of awareness and education regarding the topic.
SBR Workplace Leadership Services, founded by Dr. Ricks, supports raising awareness about human trafficking. Dr. Ricks sought partnership with Northern Virginia Community College as well as The Woolf Group Principal, Mr. Bill Woolf, to bring awareness to Northern Virginia. On January 30th, two 2-hour presentations was given by Mr. Woolf to faculty, staff, students, and the community. He was joined by District Governor-Elect Amelia Stansell and they were able to share detailed information about the atrocities relating to human trafficking and how to recognize and combat it. It starts with education and reporting the crime.
Mr. Woolf shared that although people of many ages are trafficked, the average ages are 14-16. He also shared there are 70-100 sexual assaults per day. Some odd behaviors you may observe from someone being trafficked could include a sudden availability of unexplained cash, new friends, hanging out but not able to say where they have been, and texting someone but unable to say who they are texting. He concluded with the fact that educating others and ensuring one knows where to get help, ask questions, and/or make a report are essential.
You can always contact law enforcement if you suspect you are witnessing human trafficking or think you may be a victim by calling 911.
You can also contact 1-866-347-2423 to leave an anonymous tip.
The National Human Trafficking Hotline is available at 1-888-373-7888.
In order to be vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, limit your interaction with strangers, limit social media interactions (especially with people you do not know), try to walk long distances in pairs or groups, and when in doubt, make a report.
For more partnership connections with Dr. Ricks and her contacts, feel free to reach out:
571-492-4239
References:
Anti-Trafficking International (2024). Training professionals to recognize and respond to suspected instances of human trafficking. www.preventht.org
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (2024). Blue Campaign: One voice, one mission, end human trafficking. https://www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign
