Dear Auntie, I want out of the sex trade
You are so brave for reaching out. No one deserves to be forced to do things against their will. Your next steps may feel full of uncertainty, but I want you to know that there are caring people out there who can help you take control of your life.
Looking for a new beginning? If you are in immediate danger, please call 911. If not, you can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline 24 hours, 7 days a week at 1-888-373-7888 or text BeFree to 233373 They’ll answer any questions you have and help you take the next step.
Safety Tips. If you feel like you may be in a trafficking situation, please consider how to plan for your safety. Below are some basic safety tips. If you would like to discuss creating a safety plan, contact the Trafficking hotline for help at 1-888-373-7888.
Trust your judgment. If a situation/individual makes you uncomfortable, trust that feeling.
- Keep all important documents and identification in your possession at all times.
- Keep important numbers on your person at all times, including the number of someone you feel safe contacting if you are in trouble.
- Make sure that you have a means of communication (cell phone, phone card), access to your bank account, and any medication that you might need with you at all times. Have an extra phone charger on you.
- Document any unwanted contact by your trafficker (calls, texts, emails, showing up at your work/home) and save any voicemails/texts/emails that are threatening in nature.
- Have a special signal (lights flicking on and off, code word, code text message, etc.) to use with a trusted friend/relative/neighbor to notify them that you are in danger or a person/situation is suspicious.
- If you are ever in immediate danger, the quickest way to access help is to call 911.
- Read additional safety planning tips here.
To learn more, visit http://humantraffickinghotline.org/get-help Or download the following comprehensive Native Resource Guide
Keeping you in my thoughts,
Auntie Manda
