At Atech Logistics, when we see something, we say something. That is built in the core of our business as we take a strong stand against human trafficking.
January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Since 2010, the President of the United States has dedicated the month to raising awareness about such inhuman crimes, educating the country on different forms of human trafficking, how to detect them, and what to do about it. January was chosen to recognize the anniversary of Abraham Lincoln issuing the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863.
What is Human Trafficking
Sometimes referred to as modern slavery, human trafficking is a serious federal crime. Labor trafficking and sex trafficking are the two main forms of it. The victims experience tremendous damage by being exploited in the worse ways for labor, services, commercial sex through force, fraud, and coercion.
A 2019 study by the FBI found that 80% of the cases involved sex trafficking, 19% involved labor trafficking, and 1% involved both. The damages caused are physical and psychological.
Such immoral crime robs millions of their dignity and freedom around the globe. The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that 10,000 children only are trafficked each year. In general, the Department of State estimates that 24.9 million adults and children around the world are subjected to human trafficking, including the United States.
Who Does Human Trafficking Impact?
Human trafficking does not discriminate. It affects people of different color, race, nationality, religion, age, gender identity, education level, and socioeconomic status. There is no one defining characteristic that all human trafficking victims share.
However the most vulnerable are women and girls, LGBTQI+ individuals, people with disabilities, minorities, undocumented migrants, homeless or runaway youth, and low-income communities. Marginalized communities get hit the hardest.
How We’re Fighting Human Trafficking
Understanding the magnitude of the issue, Atech takes a strong stand and acts against human trafficking. Every single employee is required to take “Truckers Against Trafficking” training.
Although we are not required to provide this training to our employees, we feel the need to empower our drivers to speak up and say something. SambaSafety’s Sentix training has made this possible for all our drivers here at Atech.
We have hundreds of drivers on the road in the 11 western states, who at any point could witness the signs of trafficking. We are proud to do our part in this global issue and hope to make a difference in someone’s life.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, or if you suspect someone is a victim of human trafficking, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. You can also text The National Human Trafficking Hotline at 233733.
Together, let’s take action.
