LANSING, Mich. — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Michigan and released a video urging people to educate themselves on how they can help prevent human trafficking.
“Human trafficking happens to children, women and men every day in our country and around the world,” Whitmer said. “It is often a hidden crime and can take different forms, including sex trafficking, forced labor and almost always involves the exploitation of our most vulnerable. I hope this month serves as a reminder and opportunity for each of us to learn about prevention efforts and ways to support survivors and their families.”
The National Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached at 888-373-7888.
In 2019, there were 22,326 victims and survivors of human trafficking.
The Michigan Human Trafficking Commission works in collaboration with agencies, organizations and individuals across the state to address issues arising from human trafficking.
It’s made up of 14 members appointed by the governor and reviews existing laws and proposes changes, raises public awareness of the issue and provides information and training to officials.
Read Whitmer’s full proclamation here.
