Every year millions of sports fans gear up for one of the most anticipated events of the year: The Super Bowl. While sports fans gather with friends, patronize their local bars and root for their favorite teams, there’s a person being forced into modern-day sex slavery.
There has been much debate on whether human trafficking increases during the super bowl and other major events. The fact is, modern-day sex slavery is happening every single day, all around the world. Young women, girls, and even men are forced into a life they didn’t ask for. Talking about the Super Bowl is a great way to start a conversation about modern-day sex slavery and bring awareness to this horrific crime.
If you are preparing for the Super Bowl, by all means, have fun! However, we encourage you to educate yourself on the dangers of modern-day sex slavery. If you are at the main event, a crowded bar, or even work at the Super Bowl you should know what to look for.
Here are some tips to help you spot the signs of a modern day sex slavery at the Super Bowl and year round. .Victims of modern-day sex slavery are often identified by the following:
- Signs of physical abuse
- Submissive personality
- Little to no eye contact
- A branded tattoo with the name ” Daddy, “, “Money”, a symbol or a barcode
- A young girl accompanied by a much older man who doesn’t look like family
- Appears fearful, anxious or stressed
- Unaware of their surroundings
If you are an employer, we suggest you train your employees on how to spot a human trafficking victim and what they should do if the come in contact with a trafficker. Many traffickers strip their victims of their identities. They seize all important documents including passports, credit cards, travel documents, and any other type of important identification. A trafficker may also be identified by the following:
- They keep their victims close to them and make sure they never leave their side
- They may appear like they have a lot of money or have expensive items ( Cars, Jewelry, Clothes, etc).
- They are controlling, violent, and jealous
While human traffickers may appear to seem like “ Pimps” you see on T.V., human traffickers can also be Doctors, Lawyers, Priests, Businessmen, and people who you are taught to trust. When it comes to modern-day sex slavery, everyone is suspect. If you suspect someone is a victim of modern day sex slavery, call the local authorities right away. Also, the National Human Trafficking Resource Center is available 24 hours, 7 days a week. Call 1-888-373-7888 or Text HELP or INFO to 233733 if you or a loved one is a victim of human trafficking.
With your help and courage, we can eradicate modern-day slavery once and for all!
Photo Credit: freedigitalphotos.net