Although human trafficking may take place in the cracks in society, it is more prevalent than one may think. Unlike the myth that most trafficking victims are illegal immigrants, roughly 60 percent of the victims are U.S. citizens. Around 75 percent of the survivors are adults, roughly 30 percent are Latinx, and about 87 percent of victims are women.

Human trafficking happens in three forms: sex, labor, and a combination of the two. Unfortunately, in Iowa from 2015 to 2017, human trafficking increased 110 percent. Awareness campaigns are effective in combatting this rising number.

Reports of human trafficking increase every year. From 2015 to 2016, the number of reported cases increased by 35 percent, and 24 percent more survivors sought out support services. With increased public awareness, the world’s 40.3 million trafficking victims have a better shot at being helped. Together, we can make a difference.