Houston Airports are spearheading a crucial initiative to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing our society: human trafficking. Saturday’s event, brought together a range of individuals and organizations including politicians, businesses, law enforcement, churches, community members, advocates, and survivors, aims to raise awareness about human trafficking and empower Houstonians to act.
SEE ALSO: ‘It was gut wrenching because I stared him down’: Trafficking survivor finally faces attacker
Recommended Videos
Located at Landfill 2 Road in Houston with an engaging lineup of activities designed to inform, inspire and mobilize attendees. From a walk-through exhibit featuring artifacts from the human trafficking industry to a trail ride hosted by the Houston Airports Rangers program, participants will have opportunities to deepen their understanding and commitment to combatting this crime. A press conference kicked off the event, followed by a complimentary BBQ lunch and live music by Joe Carmouche. Local advocacy groups were also on hand to provide invaluable resources and support to the community.
Human trafficking, often dubbed an “invisible crime,” thrives on secrecy and exploitation. However, through collaborative efforts and increased awareness, communities can become more vigilant in identifying and preventing this crime. Statistics from the federal government highlight the significance of airports in trafficking routes, with more than 70 percent of victims trafficked through these transportation hubs. To address this, Houston Airport employees have undertaken extensive training programs, educating over 50,000 airport workers since 2019 on identifying and responding to potential trafficking situations.
The event highlighted the importance of timing in combating human trafficking. Criminals frequently exploit peak travel periods, such as holidays, to transport victims, leveraging the anonymity provided by crowded airports and roads. Recognizing this, Houston Airports is leading the charge ahead of the Memorial Day holiday, amplifying efforts to safeguard vulnerable individuals.