State Reps., Local Org. Fight Human Trafficking

Information via Connecticut General Assembly

NEWINGTON, CT — For millions around the world the threat of human trafficking is very persistent and tangible. This menace is now becoming more prevalent locally as cases of human trafficking in Connecticut rise.

On Thursday, February 13, State Representative Gary Turco (D – Newington) will join Newington Rotary Club President David Tedeschi, State Representative Jillian Gilchrest (D – West Hartford), and legislative interns to bring the End It Campaign to the State Capitol concourse from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to raise awareness of this modern-day slavery.

Participants will be asked to draw a red X on their hand and share a photo of it on social media.

"This is an especially heinous crime, and each year, the number of human trafficking cases in Connecticut rises. Nationally it has grown to be a $32 billion industry. It will only continue if we are not proactive in preventing it," said Rep. Turco. "I would like to thank State Representative Jillian Gilchrest and David Tedeschi for their tremendous work to address this pervasive issue and for coordinating this event at the Capitol."

"Human trafficking is a problem right here in Connecticut," said Rep. Gilchrest. "Children are bought and sold via the internet, women are violated in illicit massage businesses, and men are exploited on the job site. As uncomfortable a topic as it may be, we will only end it if we discuss it and I look forward to shining a light on trafficking with Representative Turco, our interns, and the Newington Rotary Club."

"Trafficking is a persistent problem in the United States and across the globe. While awareness has been raised in recent years, most are unaware of how widespread the problem really is. It occurs everywhere from major cities to idyllic rural communities. And, worse yet, it’s happening right in our own backyards. Newington is a hot spot for human trafficking with roads like the Berlin Turnpike which features miles of hotels, and motels, some of which are known for sex trafficking," said Tedeschi.

Human trafficking refers to both labor and sex trafficking and involves the illegal attainment of human beings through force, coercion, abuse or deception.

Social media and the internet have played significant roles in human trafficking. Traffickers have used it as a tool to identify potential victims and grow their operations.

However, social media has been used to disrupt human trafficking operations. Victim-survivors have used it to document abuse, discover resources and build a community to connect and share their experiences.