What is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking is a $32 billion industry that is often undetected, hidden in plain sight. It involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act. Every year, millions of men, women, and children are trafficked worldwide – including right here in the United States…right here in the Midwest. It can happen in any community and victims can be any age, race, gender, or nationality.
Why US Got Involved…
Unfortunately, truck stops remain a frequent location of trafficking crimes. While truck stops are not naturally criminal hot spots, they are, unfortunately, convenient and central locations for traffickers to move throughout the United States.
We decided to team up with the Upper Peninsula Zonta Clubs of Iron Mountain-Kingsford Area and Marquette Area and work together with them to promote awareness of this serious issue. As of August 28, a semi-trailer donated by US, has been parked alongside Hwy US 2 by Town & Country Ford in Quinnesec MI, and it has a banner (see above image) mounted to the side of it advocating to end human trafficking.
How Can You Help or Get Help?
To get help from the National Human Trafficking Hotline: Call 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733)
For help or to report in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, please call or text the Upper Peninsula Human Trafficking Task Force (UPHTTF) at 906-299-9243.
What is Zonta?
Zonta International, (www.zonta.org), is a leading global organization of individuals working together to build a better world for women and girls worldwide through service and advocacy.
