MSDH Raising Awareness of Human Trafficking

Jackson, Miss. — More than 300 victims of human trafficking were reported in Mississippi in 2024, and most involved sex trafficking. During January, recognized nationally as Human Trafficking Awareness Month, the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) joins partners across the state in raising awareness, promoting prevention efforts and highlighting resources. Sunday, January 11, is recognized as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day.

Human trafficking — the recruiting, harboring, transporting or providing a person for labor services or commercial acts through force, fraud or coercion — is a serious public health and human rights issue that affects individuals and families across Mississippi. It can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, income or nationality and can occur in both rural and urban communities, often going unrecognized. Victims may not self-identify due to fear, trauma or manipulation.

The MSDH Office Against Interpersonal Violence (OAIV) works to strengthen statewide efforts to identify, support and serve victims of human trafficking. These efforts include collaboration with law enforcement, healthcare providers, community-based organizations, and victim service providers to ensure a coordinated, trauma-informed response.

Victims of human trafficking could be people you meet, work with or care for every day. Traffickers use a variety of means to control victims and limit their freedom. These are typical signs that someone may be the victim of trafficking:

• Lack of identifying documents, such as a driver's license.
• Lack of control of their own money.
• Signs of physical abuse.
• Unusual fearfulness.
• Unwillingness to communicate or socialize.
• Lack of food, sleep or proper care.
• Being underage for their work.

Human trafficking is both a criminal justice issue and a public health concern. By increasing awareness, educating the public, and strengthening partnerships, we can help identify victims sooner and connect them to the services and support they need to begin healing.

If you believe someone may be a victim of human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888, or text 233733 (BEFREE). The hotline is available 24/7 and provides confidential support and referrals. You can also call 911.