Three state departments team up to combat human trafficking
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation hopes a new campaign can save lives and raise awareness about the epidemic of sex trafficking across the state. The TBI has teamed up with TDOT and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development to bring the message to visitors of the state‘s welcome centers and rest stops Beginning this month, visitors to many of the state‘s welcome centers and rest stops will see signs posted inside bathroom stalls designed to draw attention to the issue. The signs feature the slogan, “You see a girl who could do anything. He sees a girl he can force to do anything.” “We‘re pleased to help lead the state‘s efforts to address this kind of crime,” TBI Director Mark Gwyn said. “This is too important to ignore. If this new approach gives just one victim the courage to step forward and get help, it‘ll be a success.” The three state departments joined with the Tennessee Women‘s Funds Alliance to expand the reach of its established campaign. The poster features a compelling image along with established warning signs that may indicate someone to be a victim of sex trafficking. “The Tennessee Welcome Centers host more than 12 million visitors annually,” Commissioner Susan Whitaker said, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “With this poster initiative, Tennessee is providing an opportunity to raise awareness on human-trafficking and potentially help victims who are caught in its grip. That is our ultimate goal.” The Tennessee Human Trafficking Resource Center offers a hotline for those who suspect someone is a victim of trafficking or witness activity believed to be related to trafficking at 1-800-558-6484. For more information on the state‘s efforts to address human trafficking, visit http://stopsextraffickingintn.com.
