National Inner Beauty Day is being recognized as a time to celebrate strength, resilience and the value of every person while raising awareness about human trafficking and the impact it has on victims and survivors.
Human trafficking can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. Victims may be subjected to forced labor, sexual exploitation or other forms of coercion. In many cases, traffickers use manipulation, threats or control to keep victims from seeking help.
In Iowa, organizations and law enforcement agencies work throughout the year to identify trafficking, assist victims and connect survivors with services and support.
National Inner Beauty Day also serves as a reminder that survivors should not be defined by what happened to them. Their strength, dignity and resilience are important parts of their stories.
Community members can help by learning the warning signs of human trafficking, supporting organizations that serve survivors and reporting concerns to the appropriate authorities.
If you or someone you know may be experiencing human trafficking or exploitation, help is available. In an emergency, call 911. Suspected human trafficking can also be reported to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or by texting 233733 (BEFREE).
Awareness, education and community support can play an important role in helping victims find safety and giving survivors a path forward.
Source: National Human Trafficking Hotline
