Human Trafficking
Human Trafficking is known as the “invisible crime.” North Carolina is ranked among the top 10 states in the nation for
number of cases. In 2019 alone, there were 385 calls from victims & survivors to the Human Trafficking
Hot Line.
Human Trafficking is defined by the NC DOA as a crime in which people profit from the control and
exploitation of others for the purposes of commercial sex acts, labor, or services.
White men aged 45-55 are the biggest offenders of this crime. Children under 18 are the largest volume
of victims. Children who are boys and girls. Of all races.
Because it’s an invisible crime, what can we do? Know the signs of the victims:
- Avoids eye contact
- Sudden, unexplained change in attire, behavior, or friend group
- Inconsistent story, or memory gaps
- Unaware of date, time, or physical location
- Not in possession of ID or personal documents
- Possess excessive hotel keys, or amounts of cash
Many think victims are “locked away” and not out in the public. This is not true. Victims may even be
living in their own homes but threatened with physical violence to themselves or their family if they
don’t comply. Many times, victims are subject to trafficking by their own family members.
What can you do? Be aware, watch everywhere for signs, and report it. Call the National Human
Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888 or text 233733.
This is a real problem happening right here. You can be part of the solution.
Loving Father,
We seek your divine protection for all who are exploited an enslaved.
For those forced into labor, trafficked into sexual slavery, and denied freedom.
We beseech you to release them from their chains.
Grant them protection, safety, and empowerment.
Restore their dignity and provide them a new beginning.
Show us how we might end exploitation by addressing its causes
Help us reach out in support of victims and survivors of human trafficking.
Make us instruments of your spirit for their liberation.
For this we pray through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy
Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Statistics from NC DOA, prayer from USCCB World Day of Peace