LANSING — State Rep. Jewell Jones (D-Inkster) announced his support for a resolution aiming to bring awareness to human trafficking in Michigan. The resolution, which names January 2018 Human Trafficking Awareness Month in the state of Michigan was recently adopted by the Michigan House of Representatives. The adoption of the resolution coincides with stepped up efforts to combat human trafficking in the Metro Detroit area during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, a time when law enforcement tends to see increased human trafficking activity annually.
“Human trafficking is a real problem, and as a community, we need to make a commitment to fighting it for the benefit of our friends and families,” Jones said. “I hope this strengthens the conversation, especially among law enforcement, about how we can improve the awareness of our surroundings and learn to recognize these situations that are happening far too often.”
Human trafficking activity often spikes during major events, such as the auto show going on this month, which is why the Detroit Commission on Human Trafficking and Detroit Police Department are increasing efforts to stop trafficking and protect victims. Last year during the auto show, 22 human trafficking arrests were made.
Anyone who knows of an individual that needs help related to human trafficking is urged to call (888) 373-7888 or text “info” or “help” to 233733 (BeFree).