CHILD SEX TRAFFICKING
It’s real, it happens and it’s a heinous crime. Because of the way it’s portrayed in fictional movies and memes on social media, many think of this crime as a stereotypical white suburban teenage girl being kidnapped by a stranger, in broad daylight, from a public place and imprisoned in a dark basement, far from home. The reality of this crime is even more cynical and sinister. Read and share the myths and the facts below to spread awareness and see how you might help prevent this crime.
Child Sex Trafficking Myth:
Traffickers are strangers who kidnap other people’s children.
Child Sex Trafficking Fact:
The majority of children affected by sex trafficking know their trafficker.
Child Sex Trafficking Myth:
Children know they are being trafficked.
Child Sex Trafficking Fact:
Many children affected by sex trafficking do not realize they’re being exploited.
Studies have found that a majority of children affected by sex trafficking see their trafficker as a family member, father figure, or intimate partner.
Child Sex Trafficking Myth:
Traffickers view all children the same: as potential money sources.
Child Sex Trafficking Fact:
Traffickers disproportionately prey on Black and Indigenous girls, LGBTQIA+ youth, and children with food or housing insecurity.
National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
Resources:
Nameless: Documentary about Child Sex Trafficking
polarisproject.org/child-sex-trafficking/
Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia
ojjdp.ojp.gov/programs/commercial-sexual-exploitation-children
District of Columbia Statistical Analysis Center
