Human trafficking is a crime that involves transporting or coercing people in order to benefit from their work or service. This includes forced labor but also sexual exploitation.
Traffickers use big events such as the Super Bowl to make money off the thousands of people that travel to the host city.
"The Super Bowl is one of the most popular professional sporting events, but it's critical to understand though that human trafficking -- although we do talk about it and bring awareness during the Super Bowl -- that it's happening year 'round," says Kathy Hatem, senior communications adviser for Enough is Enough. "So, it certainly puts a spotlight on human trafficking but in reality, it's a 365-day problem, and it's not just unique to the Super Bowl."
Hatem adds that trafficking happens in every state plus the District of Columbia and Pueurto Rico. Victims of human trafficking often include underage girls and boys.
The good news? More people have become more aware of the problem through public service announcements, news stories, television shows, and films. Sound of Freedom, for example, was a major box office hit and brought attention to the problem.
Today, Hatem says you can help by saying something if you see something.
"It's reported to be the second-most profitable industry, only second to the drug trade," says Hatem. "So, having that awareness around these issues, knowing what to look for, knowing the signs, and working in tandem with our community partners and law enforcement is critical in helping to prevent and identify these cases."
More resources are available on the Enough is Enough website.
