I presented on Human Trafficking in two locations, Tampa, Florida and Orlando, Florida. I presented to individuals that works in the hospitality industry. The topic, Human Trafficking, is not foreign to me. As an Immigration Law practitioner, you cannot help but come across victims of human trafficking in the practice. The goal of the presentation was to raise awareness, and to provide staff with the tools to recognize signs of human trafficking.

The Tampa crowd was receptive. In the crowd of over 50, only two individuals were not familiar with human trafficking. The audience had questions and remained engaged.

The Orlando crowd was just as, if not more receptive than the Tampa crowd. They were very familiar with the topic. Personal stories were shared. While most did not label the occurrence of human trafficking as such, they clearly told of instances where family members and other loved ones were forced to, (1) work for free, and/or (2) engage in commercial sex forcefully.

Human Trafficking involves the use of force, fraud or coercion in obtaining free labor and/or commercial sex. Every year millions of individuals are trafficked globally. Whether it is in Europe, Africa or Asia - this is a problem worldwide.
Human Trafficking is Modern Day Slavery.

Anyone can be trafficked. Trafficking can occur in any community. Trafficking can happen to anyone - no regard to age, race, gender or economics.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, "traffickers use force, fraud, or coercion to lure their victims." They look for people who are susceptible for a variety of reasons, including :

With the advent of social media, the trafficking of victims has become even more accessible, as victims are now lured from the safety of their homes with the promise of a better life elsewhere. Essentially anyone can be trafficked.

Studies have shown that Human Trafficking is a billion dollar industry. In a 2014 report from Human Rights First, a non profit organization, human trafficking earns profits of $150 billion a year for traffickers. Humanrightsfirst.org. The report went on to break down the profits by sector:

The why of human trafficking is simple. It allows individuals to make money. It has been reported that traffickers can realize a profit from 100% to 1000% based on earnings from a sexual worker.

Human trafficking is happening globally:

Law Enforcement officers have advised that if you see any signs of human trafficking, you should not confront the alleged trafficker. Instead it is best to notify law enforcement.
Signs include:

The T Visa (Trafficking Visa) is available for victims of human trafficking and their families. As a condition, the victim must report the crime to law enforcement officials.

If you see something - say something. You can call the Human Trafficking Hotline at