
An organization in Sheboygan County is doing its part to educate residents on the threat of human trafficking.
As January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, Safe Harbor of Sheboygan County has aimed to debunk some of its biggest myths.
They began by dispelling the myth that it only happens in other countries when, in reality, it happens everywhere, including in our very own communities.
Another myth is that victims will always be physically restrained or locked up.
Sheboygan’s Safe Harbor says, however, that traffickers will often use psychological control, manipulation, and threats to trap victims rather than physical restraints.
The final two common myths state that only women and children are trafficked and that traffickers will always be strangers.
Some sobering facts about human trafficking are that anyone and everyone is vulnerable and, most often, traffickers will be someone the victim considers close, such as friends, family members, or romantic partners.
Understanding the truth about human trafficking helps the community recognize the signs, support survivors, and take action.
If you suspect human trafficking, you can contact the Human Trafficking Task Force of Sheboygan County or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.