First Lady Cecilia Abbott has put out a call for Texans to engage in a united front against human trafficking, with the commencement of the Governor's Response Against Child Exploitation (GRACE) initiative's sixth annual Week of Prayer to End Human Trafficking. Kicking off from January 5 through January 11, 2025, the interfaith event marks the state's commitment during Human Trafficking Prevention Month, seeking to galvanize the faith-based community to join forces in prayer, increase their understanding of human tracking, and discern their role in preventing exploitation and supporting survivors, according to the First Lady's official announcement.
Aligning with beliefs in the strength of community resolve, First Lady Abbott stated, "Nothing is stronger than Texans standing together through prayer and action," emphasizing the collective power in joining GRACE in a unified stance against exploitation. In a statement released by the Texas Governor's Office, she urged Texans to dedicate moments of their week "to take a moment and join GRACE in its efforts to protect the vulnerable and stand against exploitation." Such community actions are believed to foster the support, healing, and justice crucial to the needs of human trafficking victims.
Daily prayer intentions feature prominently in this annual observance, with a specific focus assigned to each day of the week, calling for the exposure of exploiters, raising community awareness, supporting trauma-informed investigations, and promoting healing for survivors. The exhaustive list of thoughtful intentions underscores the event’s holistic approach to tackling human trafficking from a variety of angles – both legal and emotional. Prayers for actionable intelligence and strengthening of those within the justice system are also part of the targeted reflections recommended for participants.
Furthermore, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Commissioner Audrey O'Neill, together with DFPS Director of Human Trafficking Blanca Lance, have urged participation in the initiative. They have also publicized the release of the 2026 Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness Month guide, featuring educational opportunities and community resources designed to empower Texans in the struggle against this dire issue. The guide was announced in a DFPS video release.
As the week progresses, the hope, as articulated by First Lady Abbott and state officials, is that the collective efforts of prayer and heightened engagement will not just comfort the afflicted, but also actively disrupt the cycle of trafficking. With the firm belief in change through solidarity, Texas stands as an example of dedication to the eradication of human trafficking—an objective that goes beyond mere prayer, extending out into the streets and systems where the vulnerable seek refuge and justice.
