As part of our ongoing Transit Against Child Trafficking (TACT) campaign, we are sharing some tips on how you can disrupt child sex trafficking by becoming an informed transit rider and keep our communities safe.
Why are we doing this work?
According to the Polaris Project – detailed in their report "A Roadmap for Systems and Industries to Prevent and Disrupt Human Trafficking” — 1 in 3 human trafficking survivors report utilizing public buses, and 1 in 5 used subways or metros while being trafficked.
We have the opportunity to use this knowledge to end child sex trafficking in our communities.
Useful Tips
Know the signs: The major signs to note when traveling on public transit are an unaccompanied child, a distressed child, or in fear and signs of a child in harm or danger. Other signs are avoiding eye contact, being easily startled or afraid, providing scripted responses, and being yelled at or intimidated.
Be alert: With the knowledge and information you have, remember to practice awareness while riding public transportation. Unfortunately, child sex trafficking is common and can occur in your community or neighborhood. Watch for signs of child trafficking while you’re on your daily commute.
Bookmark your resources: Never directly intervene and instead make sure to utilize and share your resources like the National Human Trafficking Hotline which you can call or text at 1-888-373-7888. You can also visit the Transit Against Child Trafficking website for more information on this campaign and to receive additional tips for becoming an informed public transit rider.
By knowing the signs of child trafficking, staying alert, and reporting any suspicious activity, you can help disrupt child trafficking. Using these tips, together we can take action to keep our communities safer.
Visit the Transit Against Child Trafficking website for more information and social media links to follow.