January marks Human Trafficking Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness about this critical human rights issue.

Human trafficking can occur everywhere, and often the warning signs are subtle so it’s important to be aware and prepared to act if you believe human trafficking is occurring in your community.

Some steps you can take include educating yourself on warning signs and identifying local organizations where you could volunteer or donate to.

Some warning signs to look for to prevent further exploitation include:

Physical Warning Signs

  • Unexplained injuries or marks of physical abuse or torture
  • Signs of malnourishment or poor health
  • Tattoos that may indicate ownership such as barcodes or money symbols
  • Behaving in a sexualized manner and/or dresses provocatively

Behavioral Warning Signs

  • Unexplained absences from work or school
  • Acts withdrawn or depressed
  • Having an older boyfriend
  • Not being allowed to speak for themselves
  • Not allowed to speak with family or friends
  • No access to personal bank accounts or personal documents

If you notice any of these signs, reach out to any of the following organizations:

Thank you for joining Lopez Immigration Law in our commitment to staying informed and making a difference!