Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month
January is Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness month. During this time we consider these injustices that strip individuals of their God-given dignity, exploiting them through force, deception, and abuse for labor or commercial sex. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstance. It is happening across the world and within our own communities, often hidden in plain sight.
These issues truly grieve the heart of God. Genesis 1:27 reminds us that we are created in the image of God and Psalm 139:14 tells us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery and it seeks to destroy worth and rob a person of their freedom and human rights.
Traffickers often target the vulnerable—the poor, the isolated, the overlooked. As followers of Christ, we are called to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” (Proverbs 31:8). Awareness is a beginning, but love must move us to action—through prayer, compassion, and support for those who are vulnerable and those seeking healing.
This month is an invitation to prayer and action. We can pray for those trapped in exploitation, for survivors on their journey toward healing, and for wisdom and courage to respond when God calls us to act, remembering the heart of Jesus, who came to set the captives free.
STOP IT
The Salvation Army Social Justice Commission offers resources and training for those looking to learn more and to get involved. Currently, The Salvation Army operates operates 40 anti-trafficking programs across the country, meeting specific needs of the communities in which they were established.
To learn more visit the following helpful websites:
Social Justice & City Mission – Central Territory
The Salvation Army International
state.gov/national-human-trafficking-prevention-month/**
**Please note, the External Resources and Media are not affiliated with The Salvation Army and their thoughts and ideas are their own and do not necessarily represent that of The Salvation Army.**
