Providing a Path Toward Recovery & Prevention

Every year, millions of men, women, and children become victims of human trafficking, a global crisis that exploits individuals for forced labor or sexual exploitation. The United Nations estimates that 27.6 million people worldwide are trafficked, controlled by traffickers through force, fraud, or coercion. This crime exists in every country, including the United States, and often operates hidden in plain sight within communities. 

Understanding Human Trafficking 

Human trafficking is the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit people for labor or sex. Victims can be of any age, gender, or nationality, and many are too traumatized to seek help. The crime thrives in secrecy, with traffickers using psychological manipulation to control victims, making it difficult for them to recognize themselves as victims, even in public. 

Types of Trafficking 

Human trafficking falls into two categories: sex trafficking and labor trafficking, both of which exploit people for commercial gain. In California’s Central Valley, the 2022 Human Trafficking Data Project reported 465 victims, many in industries such as agriculture, hospitality, and domestic service.Unlike human smuggling, which involves the movement of people across borders with their consent, trafficking is based on exploitation and does not require crossing borders. However, smuggling can evolve into trafficking if coercion is used. 

Common Myths About Trafficking 

Myth: Only women and girls are victims of sex trafficking. 
Fact: Men, boys, and LGBTQ+ youth are also vulnerable. 

Myth: Traffickers target only strangers. 
Fact: Many victims are trafficked by people they know, including family members and intimate partners. 

Myth: Human trafficking always involves violence and kidnapping. 
Fact: Most traffickers use psychological manipulation, fraud, and threats. 

Myth: Labor trafficking only happens in developing countries. 
Fact: Labor trafficking is prevalent in developed countries, including the U.S. 

Addressing Underreporting 

Underreporting remains a significant challenge. While the UN estimates 27.6 million trafficking victims, fewer than 115,324 victims have been identified. To combat this, governments must invest in specialized investigative units and create pathways for survivors to clear criminal records caused by traffickers. Companies must also ensure they are not inadvertently supporting forced labor in their supply chains. 

Supporting Survivors in NorCal

The IRC works closely with local organizations across the Central Valley, including Haven and Valley Crisis Center. Together, we provide survivors with support to rebuild their lives and escape the cycle of exploitation. These three agencies provide critical services including , emergency shelter, safety planning, 24 hour help line, trauma informed care, peer counseling, housing, legal assistance and more.  

Key Steps for Prevention 

To fight human trafficking, it’s essential to: 

Human trafficking is often hidden in plain sight but requires urgent attention. By busting myths, increasing reporting, and providing support for victims, we can combat this crime and support survivors on their path to healing and justice. Together, we can work to end human trafficking and create a safer world for all.