Understanding Human Trafficking

Bradley International Airport is committed to supporting the fight against human trafficking as, unfortunately, airports are often used by traffickers to transport victims.

As a community, we’re committed to educating our colleagues and passengers about this national issue – and to help victims get help.

What is human trafficking?

Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion in exchange for labor, services, or a commercial sex act or any commercial sex act involving a child. It is happening everywhere, in every type of community across the United States, and victims are of any nationality, age, socioeconomic status, or gender. Victims are oftentimes exploited by family members, caregivers, intimate partners, employers, benefactors, and others, and victims may be afraid to come forward or may not recognize the signs that they are being victimized.

Potential signs may include individuals who:
  • do not have access to an ID or passport.
  • have someone in their life who expects them to do things for money that they do not want to do.
  • are not being paid what their employer agreed to pay them or are forced to work in unsafe conditions.
  • are being forced to work or trade sex acts.
  • are being threatened or controlled.
  • are not allowed to speak to family or friends.
  • have been told that law enforcement will not help and will deport undocumented immigrants.
  • have difficulty articulating reasonable/logical travel plans or are overly deferential to a travel companion.
How to help:
  • Anonymously report suspected human trafficking to the Homeland Security Investigations Tip Line at 1-866-347-2423 or ice.gov/tips.
  • Get help from the National Human Trafficking Hotline by calling 1-888-373-7888 or texting HELP or INFO to 233733 (BEFREE).
  • If you have information on goods produced with forced labor destined for importation into the United States, provide it to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection at eallegations.cbp.gov and Homeland Security Investigations at [email protected]
  • If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Remember:
  • Human trafficking victims have experienced significant trauma and harm. Victims may be unable or prevented from getting help due to existing vulnerabilities. It is important to treat victims with care and respect, and get immediate, professional support to ensure a victim-centered and trauma-informed response.
  • Visit gov/BlueCampaign for additional resources to combat human trafficking.