Downey Statement on National Human Trafficking Awareness Day

(TRENTON) – In recognition of National Human Trafficking Awareness Day today, Assemblywoman Joann Downey released the following statement:

“Many of us cannot imagine what life is like for the millions of men, women and children around the world who are victims of human trafficking,” said Downey (D-Monmouth), chair of the Assembly Human Services Committee. “Forced labor, domestic servitude, sex trafficking and illegal exploitation are equivalent to modern slavery. Even worse, many victims are afraid to come forward out of fear of their traffickers or law enforcement, or face a language barrier.

“In honor of Human Trafficking Awareness Day, I encourage everyone to take a moment to learn about human trafficking and raise awareness for resources available to victims. Information is available through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Campaign, which aims to end human trafficking worldwide. Visit www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign to learn more about this tragedy and how to support victims.”