Show Notes: National Human Trafficking Awareness Day - Ep11:

Today’s featured holiday is, “National Human Trafficking Awareness Day”.

In 2007, the United States Senate designated January 11th as “National Human Trafficking Awareness Day”.

Human trafficking is a huge global scourge. Experts estimate there are 20 to 30 million people in slavery around the world.

The U.S. State Department estimates there are 600,000 to 800,000 people are trafficked across international borders each year. Eighty percent of those people are female and half are children.

Sadly, children are 12 to 14 years old on average when they enter the sex trade. Many are runaways who experienced abuse before leaving home.

Human trafficking is the third largest international crime generating $32 billion every year, with $15.5 billion of that number made in industrialized countries. Only drugs and weapons trafficking earn more money

But let’s look beyond the numbers. Every person, every child lured or forced into sex or labor slavery is a living, breathing human being. They will experience unspeakable acts of brutality. The health and emotional toll these victims experience will affect them for life.

What can we do to curb this scourge?

First, talk about the reality of human trafficking with your children or grandchildren.

Pay attention to your children’s social media communications. Know who they are talking with, texting, or connecting with on social media.

Traffickers are heavy users of social media. They target vulnerable children and teens, gaining their trust online and then arranging in-person meetings. During such meetings, children are either lured into sexual acts or are outright kidnapped.

If you suspect someone is being targeted for human trafficking, let police know immediately.

If you’re a victim or are in touch with a victim, call the National Trafficking Hot-line at 888-373-7888. You can also text 233733 using “Help” or “Info”.

If you enjoyed today's show, share this episode with friends and family and on your social media. They’ll thank you for the gift.

Tune into tomorrow’s show to learn all about National Pharmacist Day. You’ll learn some interesting tidbits about these professionals and how their roles are changing in our healthcare system.

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This is your host, Stephen Carter, reminding you, this day is special, and so are you. Have fun, smile, and enjoy your day.