Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery, and involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit human beings for some type of labor or commercial sex purpose. Every year, millions of men, women, and children worldwide—including in the United States—are victims of human trafficking. Victims are often lured with false promises of well-paying jobs or are manipulated by people they trust, but instead are forced or coerced into prostitution, domestic servitude, farm or factory labor, or other types of forced labor.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is responsible for investigating human trafficking, arresting traffickers and protecting victims. DHS initiates hundreds of investigations and makes numerous arrests every year, using a victim-centered approach. DHS also processes immigration relief through Continued Presence (CP), T visas, and U visas to victims of human trafficking and other designated crimes. ... continue reading>>http://www.dhs.gov/topic/human-trafficking
GEMS is the only organization in New York State of its kind. The organization has helped hundreds leave the commercial sex industry and the documentary and exposé of human trafficking of young girls on the streets of New York titled, Very Young Girls was directed by David Schisgall and Nina Alvarez and highlights the work that GEMS does. Rachel was named one of the 50 Women Who Change the World, as well as recognized as one of the 100 Women Who Shape New York by the New York Daily News.
-- List of organizations that combat human trafficking
Utilizing a harm reduction model, HIPS’ programs strive to address the impact that HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted infections, discrimination, poverty, violence and drug use have on the lives of individuals engaging in sex work.
HIPS is a nationally recognized program that meets the needs sex workers and assists them in their efforts to eliminate the transmission of HIV, increase sexual health, and reduce violence and harm associated with sex work and drug use.
HIPS programs serve an estimated 2,000 sex workers a year on the streets and in our drop-in center, providing a full spectrum of programs to address basic & immediate needs, long-term goal setting and life skills development.
-- WomensLaw.org ... A project of NNEDV, providing legal information and support to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
-- FAQs: Myths and Misconceptions
-- Common Myths and Misconceptions | Polaris Project