National Human Trafficking Awareness Day is an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about modern-day slavery and human trafficking, which affects millions of people worldwide through forced labor, sexual exploitation, and organ trafficking.
Quick Facts
When is it: January 11 annually
Tagged as: National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month (January)
What’s the hashtag: #HumanTraffickingAwarenessDay, #WearBlueDay
When was it founded: 2007
Who founded it: United States Senate
History
The day emerged from the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, which established America’s commitment to combating human trafficking. In 2007, the U.S. Senate designated January 11 as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, and in 2010, President Barack Obama expanded it by declaring January as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
Timeline
- 2000: Trafficking Victims Protection Act passed
- 2007: U.S. Senate establishes awareness day
- 2010: January designated as Prevention Month
- 2024: Continues as global awareness initiative
Dates for Next Year
| Year | Month | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | January | Thursday 11 |
| 2025 | January | Saturday 11 |
| 2026 | January | Sunday 11 |
| 2027 | January | Monday 11 |
| 2028 | January | Tuesday 11 |
Observed
People worldwide participate by wearing blue clothing and sharing photos on social media. Organizations host educational events, training sessions, and awareness campaigns.
Fun Facts
- Blue is the international color of human trafficking awareness
- Approximately 225,000 people become trafficking victims annually
- Asia to Europe is the most common trafficking route
- Sexual exploitation remains the most reported form of trafficking
Quiz
- What color represents trafficking awareness?
- When was the awareness day established?
- Which president declared January as Prevention Month?
-(Answers: Blue, 2007, Barack Obama)
FAQs
- How can I participate?
Wear blue on January 11 and share photos using #WearBlueDay - What should I do if I suspect trafficking?
Contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888)
Importance
This day serves as a crucial reminder to combat human trafficking, protect vulnerable populations, and support survivors. It unites communities worldwide in the fight against modern slavery and promotes prevention through education and awareness.
Related
- World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
- International Human Rights Day
- Universal Children’s Day
- International Women’s Day