LANSING - Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proclaimed January 2021 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month in an effort to urge people to educate themselves on how they can help prevent human trafficking.

Human trafficking is recognized in the state of Michigan as a serious threat to public health and safety, and it is a pervasive and exploitative crime around the world. According to the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline, there were 22,326 victims and survivors of human trafficking identified in 2019.

“Human trafficking happens to children, women and men every day in our country and around the world,” Whitmer said. “It is often a hidden crime that can take different forms including sex trafficking, forced labor and almost always involves the exploitation of our most vulnerable.”

According to the press release, organizations across the state are working daily to enhance the awareness and prevention of human trafficking and to hold perpetrators accountable.

The Michigan Human Trafficking Commission is among the organizations helping to raise awareness of the issues arising from human trafficking.

The Commission collaborates with agencies, organizations and individuals across the state. Its work integrates a multi-faceted, statewide solution that includes health care providers, social workers, child advocacy groups, law enforcement, faith-based organizations, legislators and the judiciary system.

The Michigan Human Trafficking Commission is housed in the Department of Attorney General and is made up of 14 members appointed by Gov. Whitmer.

“I hope this month serves as a reminder and opportunity for each of us to learn about prevention efforts and ways to support survivors and their families,” Whitmer said.

For help, survivors can contact the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline by calling 1.888.373.7888, texting “BEFREE” (233733), or visiting www.humantraffickinghotline.org.