The next Amber Alert you receive could very well be a victim of human trafficking.

According to Michigan's Attorney General, Bill Schuette, "human trafficking is the second-largest and fastest-growing criminal industry in the world."  This modern-day form of slavery includes a diverse range of populations, but is particularly prevalent among youths.  It is estimated that up to 40% of all human trafficking victims includes the sexual exploitation of a child.  Though efforts are underway to bring justice to perpetrators, much more could be done to protect children. 

A good place to start is by spreading awareness of the dangers and warning signs of human trafficking to adolescents in school.  A massive entry point for human traffickers exists through social media.  Many children have access to websites such as Facebook, and are often contacted by perpetrators as a form of recruiting process.  Through awareness and education, a potential victim could protect themselves or others from an incredibly dangerous situation. 

This petition hopes to urge legislators to add a mandatory human trafficking segment to Freshmen School Orientations required in public schools.  The educational materials are already being developed by the Michigan Human Trafficking Taskforce, and need only be fine-tuned and implemented.  In doing so, many might be saved from this growing epidemic.  By signing below, you are spreading a message to local and state legislators that education and awareness is an important element in the fight against human trafficking.