One local organization’s fight to end human trafficking in Birmingham

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human traffickingJoin the JLB in the fight against human trafficking in Birmingham and beyond. (Junior League of Birmingham)

Human trafficking may feel like a distant problem, but it’s happening right here in Birmingham.

One organization leading the charge against trafficking in our state is the Junior League of Birmingham

Read on to learn how this group of dedicated women is taking active steps to end this crisis through advocacy, hands-on initiatives and more. Plus, find out how you can get involved. 

Human trafficking in Birmingham

anti-human traffickingAllie Stallo at A21 Walk for Freedom in 2022 (Junior League of Birmingham)

It may surprise you to know that Birmingham is a hub for human trafficking. 

According to the Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Campaign, human trafficking uses force, fraud or coercion. These methods are used to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex.

What makes Birmingham a human trafficking hub? Location plays a prominent role.

Birmingham sits on the 1-20/1-65 corridor. You can get to any major city in the southeast through these two interstate systems. I-20 has even been coined the “Sex Trafficking Superhighway”.

Here are some important things to know about human trafficking: 

  • It can happen to anyone, any gender.
  • The commercial sex industry is a multi-million dollar industry in the Birmingham metro area.
  • Vulnerable young people are most at risk. (But it can happen to anyone, any gender).
  • The rise of social media has made it easier to fall prey to trafficking.

How the Junior League of Birmingham is fighting human trafficking 

Walk for Freedom edited One local organization's fight to end human trafficking in BirminghamJLB members participating in the anti-human trafficking Walk for Freedom. (Junior League of Birmingham)

Since 2017, the JLB’s anti-human trafficking initiative has reached thousands across our state. 

Their mission isn’t just about raising awareness. It’s about action. With boots on the ground, JLB members work directly with other community leaders and agencies to tackle this critical issue.

“By actively working to stop human trafficking, the Junior League of Birmingham is working towards a future where every woman and child in our community can live free from exploitation.”

Jessica Hopper, President, Junior League of Birmingham
anti-human trafficking2024 Clay, AL Proclamation signing (Junior League of Birmingham)

The JLB’s initiative allows them to help the community by:

  • Delivering impactful workshops and presentations to various groups, including students, educators + community organizations, to help them recognize the signs of human trafficking, understand its devastating impact and know how to report it. 
  • Partnering with Anti-Trafficking Organizations to enhance their outreach, maximize resources and effectively support survivors of human trafficking. 
  • Advocating for policies to promote change at a systemic level to prevent trafficking from occurring in the first place.
  • Providing Resources to high-risk areas, equipping community members with the tools and knowledge needed to identify + report human trafficking cases. 
  • Training its members to be equipped to take on a leadership role in the community, specifically regarding anti-human trafficking efforts.

The JLB’s anti-human trafficking accomplishment

anti-human traffickingThe JLB’s anti-human trafficking signage is hung in public restrooms across Alabama, including prominent spots like the World Games. (Junior League of Birmingham)

The JLB’s anti-human trafficking initiative has seen many accomplishments. Here are some:

  • In 2020, 34 area mayors signed awareness proclamations, leading to 7 area municipalities declaring themselves Trafficking Free Zones.
  • The Birmingham International Airport has anti-human trafficking signage in every bathroom stall.
  • Multiple awareness events + training have taken place, reaching over 1,200 people.

How you can help stop human trafficking in Birmingham

  • Recognize key indicators of human trafficking. Here are some common signs of human trafficking to watch out for.
  • Report it. Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
    • It’s open 24/7 and can communicate with 200+ languages.
    • All calls are confidential + answered live by highly-trained advocates. 
  • Learn about the JLB, its partners, + other local groups who are working on ending human trafficking.
  • Donate to the JLB. Doing so will help them tackle critical issues like human trafficking.

“The fight against human trafficking is ongoing, complex and requires a collective effort from all corners of our community.

We encourage everyone to educate themselves on this issue, get involved and join the fight.”

Jessica Hopper, President, Junior League of Birmingham 

With your help, we can end human trafficking. Join the fight—learn more about the Junior League of Birmingham and get involved today.

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