January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and as a mom here in East Tennessee, I feel an urgency to talk about a reality that hits closer to home than most of us would like to believe. Human trafficking isn’t just something that happens in far-off cities or foreign countries; it’s happening right here in our community. And as mothers, we have a unique role to play in protecting our kids and fostering safer environments for all children.
The Reality in East Tennessee
When we hear about trafficking, our minds often jump to dramatic movie plots. But in reality, trafficking is often subtle and insidious. The truth is, children and teens in East Tennessee are being exploited, often by someone they know or trust. It’s a heart-wrenching issue, but understanding it is the first step to fighting it.
The rise of online platforms has only made it easier for traffickers to groom and exploit children. Apps that seem harmless can be used to build connections with kids, often under the radar of even the most attentive parents. And it’s not just kids from troubled backgrounds who are at risk. Traffickers prey on vulnerabilities — insecurities, loneliness, and the need for attention — that any child can experience. Poverty and isolation may amplify the influence of dangerous intentions.
Steps to Be Aware and Take Action
As moms, there’s so much we can do to educate ourselves and others, protect our children, and create a ripple effect of awareness in our circle of friends and community.
1. Educate Yourself
Start by learning the signs of trafficking and exploitation. Some indicators include:
- Sudden changes in behavior or appearance.
- Unexplained gifts or money.
- A child becoming secretive about online activities.
Organizations like Street Hope are great resources for understanding what trafficking looks like in our area and how to respond.
2. Be Intentional About Online Safety
Talk to your kids about the risks of sharing personal information online. Monitor their social media accounts, set boundaries for internet use, and encourage open communication. Let them know they can come to you with anything, no matter how small it seems. Remind them that you are on their side, even if they have gotten into trouble in a situation, you will work for their best.
3. Engage with Your Community
Join local efforts to combat trafficking. Whether it’s attending awareness events, volunteering or simply having conversations with other moms, every action helps. The more informed our community is, the less space traffickers have to operate.
4. Pray and Advocate
For those of us whose faith is central to our lives, prayer is a powerful tool. Pray for the children at risk, for the survivors, and for the organizations working tirelessly to bring restoration. Pray for current legislation that will make age verification and other protective measures mandatory for online activity that could be harmful. Advocate for stronger laws and support systems that protect children and punish traffickers.
A Challenge for All of Us
As January comes to a close, I challenge you to take one step toward becoming more informed and involved. Maybe it’s having that awkward but necessary conversation with your teen about online safety. Maybe it’s attending a training or donating to an organization fighting trafficking. Whatever it is, know that your actions matter.
