Anti-Human Trafficking Advocacy Day
AUSTIN, TX (January 30, 2025) – Human trafficking continues to devastate vulnerable populations in Texas, with children in foster care and the juvenile justice system disproportionately at risk. In 2022, only 332 of the 38,294 children in foster care were screened for trafficking, despite 336 suspected or confirmed trafficking victims being identified by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Suspected illicit massage businesses—fronts for human trafficking and sexual exploitation—are increasingly prevalent in Texas communities. The number of suspected illicit massage businesses has more than doubled in the past six years, from 689 to just over 1,500 SIMBs in Texas. The National Human Trafficking Hotline documented 2,379 substantive contacts originating from Texas in 2023 alone. The state must prioritize comprehensive anti-trafficking strategies, including robust data collection mechanisms, enhanced law enforcement intelligence, and expanded survivor protections and supports. Enhancing victim protections, establishing licensing and reporting requirements, mandating prevention training, creating legal mechanisms to combat trafficking, and improving prosecution of trafficking-related offenses are essential steps in disrupting trafficking networks and supporting vulnerable populations. By taking a multi-faceted approach to prevention, detection, and support, Texas can more effectively combat this pervasive human rights violation.
“Our state has made great strides in strengthening zero tolerance for human trafficking, but there is still work to do,” said Dr. Bob Sanborn, President & CEO of CHILDREN AT RISK.
Standing Together Against Human Trafficking: A Powerful Day of Action at the Texas Capitol
This January, in recognition of Human Trafficking Awareness Month, advocates, survivors, and legislative champions gathered at the Texas State Capitol to demand action in the fight against human trafficking. Dressed in blue, we stood in solidarity, raising our voices to protect the most vulnerable in our communities.
During a pivotal legislative briefing, we engaged with policymakers on key bills aimed at strengthening protections for at-risk children and disrupting trafficking networks. The rally that followed drew widespread attention, with news media capturing our shared commitment to change. We extend our deepest gratitude to the partners who spoke, attended, and stood with us in unity, ensuring that survivors’ voices were amplified.
We are especially thankful for the legislators who champion this cause. Senator Angela Paxton, Senator Tan Parker, Senator Kevin Sparks, and Representative Ann Johnson showed unwavering commitment to anti-trafficking efforts. A special thank you to Representative Senfronia Thompson, whose sponsorship of this rally helped amplify our message.
A highlight of the day was Dr. Nissi Hamilton’s testimony. As a survivor, her powerful words and determination to turn her experience into systemic change deeply moved all in attendance.
Beyond raising awareness, this was a day of action. Together, we pushed for stronger survivor protections, enhanced screening for at-risk youth, and tougher laws against traffickers. We reaffirmed a simple truth: human trafficking is a violation of human dignity, and Texas must do better.
By standing together, we are driving real, lasting change. But the fight is not over. We remain committed to supporting survivors, advancing policy, and ensuring a safer future for all.
