January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month

January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a presidentially designated observance time, to raise awareness and take action to prevent human trafficking in our communities. This year’s theme, “Stronger Connections. Stronger Futures.” reminds us that our everyday connections play a vital role in preventing human trafficking.

Strong, supportive relationships at home, at work, and in our communities help protect people from human trafficking and other forms of abuse. When individuals are supported, valued, and connected to community, it is harder for traffickers to isolate, manipulate, or control them. Family members, friends, coworkers, and community members can notice when something doesn’t seem right and help connect people to support and resources.

Human Trafficking Prevention Month will feature four focus weeks to support clear messaging and effective resource sharing. The first week introduces Human Trafficking Prevention Month and provides foundational information ending with “Wear Blue Day” standing along survivors on Sunday January 11, 2026. Building on this foundation, weeks two through four highlight ways to strengthen connections at home, at work, and within our communities.

– Week 1: January 5-11, 2026: Introduction to Human Trafficking

– Week 2: January 12-18, 2026: Connection at Work

– Week 3: January 19-25, 2026: Connection in the Community

– Week 4: January 26-31, 2026: Connection in the Family

Throughout the month, we will offer information and resources to help individuals and organizations take meaningful action to prevent trafficking and support people who may be at risk or who have experienced abuse.

Throughout January, be intentional about deepening connections with people in your daily life–check in, listen, and build trust. Together, we can help create a future free from human trafficking. How you can engage this month:

– Share information about Human Trafficking Prevention Month with your networks.

– Promote resources that support safety, stability, and well-being. Resource Library | The Administration for Children and Families

– Encourage conversations with children and youth about human trafficking, healthy relationships, safe boundaries, and finding the right balance between screen time and time with family and friends.

– If you know someone who is in a trafficking situation or other abusive situation–a family member, student, patient, tenant, coworker, or someone else–encourage them to seek help.

A 24/7 confidential helpline, operated by the UPHTTF is available to the public to call or text for advocacy and help (906) 299-9243. If in immediate danger call 911. To find more information in ways you can help join the fight go to Home – Upper Peninsula Human Trafficking Task Force (upht123.org).