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Published on February 10, 2025
Boston City Council Rallies Against the Scourge of Human Trafficking with Resolute January ProclamationSource: Google Street View

In light of the ongoing battle against the scourges of forced labor and sex trafficking, the City Council has recently taken steps to underscore the significance of combating what's commonly termed modern-day slavery. Echoing the actions of President Barack Obama, who, back in 2010, first declared January as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the Council has adopted a new resolution to raise awareness about human trafficking, a phenomenon that persists despite the formidable efforts of both law enforcement and advocacy groups.

Acknowledging the complexity of the issue, which is attributed to factors such as the insidious nature of trafficking that keeps its victims in the shadows and the complicating role technology plays in abetting traffickers, the Council acted to re-affirm the importance of public awareness and support for survivor services. The proclamation was made last month, as reported by the City of Boston's official website.

On the local front, the City's Collaborative Efforts Against Sexual Exploitation (CEASE) spearheads the charge against human trafficking in Boston. CEASE is committed to dismantling the structures enabling commercial sexual exploitation, while also extending a helping hand to those who manage to break free from the chains of exploitation. This multifaceted endeavor includes educational campaigns about trafficking's indicators and preventative measures, vital for the early identification and interruption of trafficking networks.

The significance of community involvement cannot be overstressed when it comes to fighting human trafficking. With an emphasis on the need for collective action, the City Council expressed a strong commitment to supporting the organizations at the forefront of this battle, recognizing the journey of survivors. "The Council honors survivors and renews their commitment to the collective work needed to end this crime," as stated in their official press release.