Awareness event in Jackson highlights dangers, signs of human trafficking
JACKSON, Tenn. — Community members in the Hub City met Tuesday afternoon to raise awareness for a great cause.
Leaders with the Jackson Parks and Recreation and Sisters with Aspiring Goals hosted an event that brought awareness to the dangers of human trafficking.
“Trafficking can affect everyone–young women, young men–there’s not necessarily a specific socioeconomic background that you’re looking for it can affect anyone and everyone,” said Jones.
Keynote speaker and captain with the Jackson Police Department, Danielle Jones, shared important information with attendees at Tuesday’s workshop on the dangers of human trafficking.
Jones offers important advice to guardians and parents.
“My biggest thing–especially with parents–is be mindful to who your kids are talking to online. Be mindful of who their friends are. My biggest rule of thumb is if I haven’t seen you in real life. or I haven’t had a conversation with you in real life, you’re not my friend on social media,” said Jones.
Jones is also a task officer with TBI’s human trafficking unit. She was able to share with younger audience members the dangers of communicating with strangers.
She also offers advice to those who may want to report problems relating to human trafficking.
“If you see something that kind of looks a little strange to you just contact local authorities it could be nothing but we much rather be safe than sorry,” said Jones.
Bridgett Praham with Jackson Parks and Recreation also gives advice on what human traffickers are looking for.
“They prey on people who have gone through sexual and physical abuse. They prey on people who are sometimes at their lowest and who are without a home and family and friends,” said Praham.
Attendees were able to visit vendor tables for resources and were able to pour red sand in the cracks outside of the Westwood Recreation Center.
The red sand represents those who have fallen through the cracks, and that are victims of human trafficking.
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