Red Sand Project returns for human trafficking awareness

HENDERSON COUNTY, Tenn. — An annual event to raise awareness for human trafficking is returning all around the country.

It is the time of year again where you might find some red sand on sidewalks. This is not random. It is an important message with a powerful meaning.

It started around 2014 by an artist named Molly Gochman. Today, millions of people participate each year.

The goal is to raise awareness about human trafficking. It can and does happen here in West Tennessee.

All over the country, and even the world, different organizations and groups will participate in this event over the next few days.

Monday morning, the Henderson County Health Department held their own Red Sand Project.

It started with Mayor Robbie McCready giving a proclamation in recognition of World Day Against Trafficking.

He also spoke about a personal encounter he had with human trafficking while working in law enforcement in Henderson County.

After this, everyone in attendance grabbed a bag of red sand to fill the cracks in the sidewalk outside of the county courthouse. This symbolizes those who have fallen through the cracks of society and have become vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation.

Your community is more than likely having a Red Sand Project of their own soon. You are more than encouraged to participate and spread the message.

Red Sand Projects have been done in all 50 states as well as 70 different countries. There have been over a million participants, with the number growing each year.

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