Since 2010, January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
Many people are under the impression that trafficking is something that only happens between Africa and southern Europe or other far-flung places. Another common misconception is that it only refers to the smuggling of individuals across a border. That is a form of trafficking but certainly not the only kind. Unfortunately, trafficking comes in many forms and occurs worldwide in all cultures and across all demographics.
Human trafficking is any form of exploitation involving force, fraud, or coercion. It can happen in the food service and hospitality industry, in construction, farming and agriculture, or in forced intimate relationships. Really, it can happen anywhere and involves quite a spectrum of situations and circumstances. Extortion can happen from an employer, a landlord, or others who have any kind of leverage over a vulnerable person. And what might be really shocking to learn is that it can even happen through family members and relatives. Individuals particularly at risk include those experiencing homelessness and struggling with substances. They need help and are sometimes desperate for any assistance, making them easier prey.
Last August, during the Four Corners Indian Country conference held at the casino, the Laboratory to Combat Human Trafficking (LCHT) gave a spellbinding presentation and detailed how and why trafficking is taking place in the Four Corners region. Now you, too, can learn more from them in an upcoming, free Zoom training.
Please mark your calendars for Tuesday, April 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. for a free, virtual training via Zoom sponsored by LCHT and SASO (Sexual Assault Services Organization). From their flyer we wanted to share that this training is designed for “any organizations, agencies or community groups, including healthcare professionals, educators and law enforcement.” Attendees will learn how to identify labor and sex trafficking situations and potential victims, they will learn how to develop internal protocols to support survivors, and how to connect to local anti-trafficking resources.
You might see their flyer around Ignacio in the coming months but if not, you can get more information by contacting Alexis at Alexis@durangoSASO.org or by calling the Durango SASO office at 970-259-3074.
Here’s to your good health!
It’s okay not to feel okay
If you or someone you know has been struggling with their emotions, behaviors, or substance use please reach out to us. We can help you find appropriate tools and services that could help you overcome obstacles in your life. We are here for you. Please contact the Southern Ute Behavioral Health Division at 970-563-5700 for more information or to set up an appointment to see a counselor or therapist.
Reminder: If you need to talk to someone, please reach out.
You will also find more information and resources on the LCHT website, including examples of stories to help give an idea how subtle trafficking can be.
And for those interested in opioid use education, harm reduction, and support, please contact us for quick Naloxone (Narcan) training and fentanyl test strips. We can schedule individual, family, or friends training times at our Southern Ute Behavioral Health Building, or we can come to you, and the training is around 30 minutes. Please call us at 970-563-5700 to set up a training appointment. National Human Trafficking Prevention Month