Every January, we recognize National Human Trafficking Prevention Month—an annual reminder of an insidious issue that remains hidden in plain sight. Human trafficking isn’t just something that happens elsewhere—it’s happening in our communities, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. The more we understand trafficking, the better we can prevent it, support survivors, and challenge the systems that allow it to persist.
What is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking is the exploitation of people through force, fraud, or coercion for labor or commercial sex. While Hollywood often portrays trafficking as dramatic kidnappings by strangers, the reality is far scarier. Many traffickers are people the victims know—family members, romantic partners, or employers—who take advantage of someone’s trust and vulnerability.
Key Facts About Trafficking:
- Sex trafficking happens when someone is forced, tricked, or manipulated into commercial sex work. Any sex act involving a minor is automatically considered trafficking, even if no force is involved.
- Labor trafficking involves forcing someone to work through threats, deception, or debt bondage. It happens in industries like agriculture, domestic work, and construction.
- It’s happening everywhere. Human trafficking is reported in every U.S. state, including Connecticut. While anyone can be targeted, certain groups are at higher risk due to economic and social factors.
Who is Most at Risk?
Traffickers prey on vulnerable individuals, especially those experiencing financial hardship, homelessness, discrimination, or social isolation. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline (2020-2022):
- 44% of sex trafficking victims were exploited by a family member
- 39% were trafficked by a romantic or intimate partner
- 37% of reported victims were minors
- 80% of reported victims were women or girls
Other risk factors include:
- Unstable housing or homelessness
- Substance use
- Recent migration or relocation
- Mental health concerns
LGBTQ+ youth, BIPOC individuals, and immigrants often face increased risk as well, due to systemic barriers and economic marginalization.
Signs of Human Trafficking
Many trafficking victims don’t self-identify as victims. They may feel trapped, fear retaliation, or even develop a psychological bond with their trafficker. But there are warning signs:
Behavioral Signs:
- Avoids eye contact, seems fearful, anxious, or withdrawn
- Has scripted or rehearsed responses to questions
- Avoids law enforcement or social services
Physical Indicators:
- Signs of malnourishment or untreated medical conditions
- Unexplained bruises or injuries
- No access to identification or personal documents
- Tattoos or branding that indicate ownership
Situational Red Flags:
- Works excessively long hours for little or no pay
- Is closely monitored or controlled by another person
- Lives in overcrowded or unsafe conditions
- Suddenly has expensive belongings with no clear source of income
If something feels off, trust your instincts. The U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888) is available 24/7 to offer guidance.
Trafficking in Connecticut: What You Should Know
Human trafficking is a serious issue in Connecticut, and community awareness is key to stopping it. Local organizations and systems are taking action:
- Connecticut’s Anti-Trafficking Response Team (HART) collaborates with law enforcement and service providers to identify and assist victims.
- The Connecticut Alliance to End Sexual Violence and its nine member centers offer free, confidential resources for survivors.
- Help is available 24/7:
- 📞 English Hotline: 1-888-999-5545
- 📞 Spanish Hotline: 1-888-568-8332
How You Can Help
1. Learn & Share Information
The more people understand trafficking, the harder it is for traffickers to operate. Share accurate information on social media, attend awareness events, and challenge harmful myths.
2. Know What Resources Are Available
If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to The Alliance’s statewide hotline (1-888-999-5545) or the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888).
3. Advocate for Stronger Protections
Legislation can make a real difference. For example, in Connecticut, Senate Bill 222 now grants sexual violence survivors up to 12 unpaid leave days per year—a crucial step toward giving survivors the time they need to heal.
Follow The Alliance on Facebook and Instagram to learn about new legislation supporting survivors and advocate for change.
4. Stay Vigilant in Your Community
- If you work in healthcare, hospitality, or education, get trained to recognize the signs of trafficking.
- If you own a bar or restaurant, consider Safe Bars training to prevent sexual violence.
- If you’re a parent or caregiver, talk to your kids about online safety and healthy relationships.
5. Support Survivors Through Donations & Volunteering
Nonprofits fighting trafficking rely on community support. Whether you donate, volunteer, or spread awareness, every action makes a difference. Visit endsexualviolencect.org/donate to contribute.
A Survivor-Centered Approach
Survivors are the experts in their own experiences. At The Alliance, we believe in empowering survivors—not making decisions for them. Every person who has experienced trafficking deserves compassion, dignity, and access to the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Need Help? Reach Out.
📞 Connecticut’s Sexual Assault Hotline
- English: 1-888-999-5545
- Spanish: 1-888-568-8332
📞 National Human Trafficking Hotline
- Call: 1-888-373-7888
- Text “HELP” or “INFO” to 233733
- Visit: humantraffickinghotline.org
Together, We Can Break the Cycle of Exploitation
No one should have to live in fear or be denied their basic human rights. By staying informed, speaking up, and supporting survivor-centered solutions, we can take real steps toward ending human trafficking.
Let’s be part of the change.