The City of Minneapolis is committed to fighting human trafficking and protecting the most vulnerable populations. As part of Human Trafficking Awareness Month, the City is working to raise visibility around this critical issue, with a particular focus on sex trafficking and sexual exploitation and their intersection with substance use disorder.
The City partners with community organizations, experts, and those with lived experience to address human trafficking and provide resources to those at risk.
“Human trafficking is a public health, safety, and human rights issue. It’s up to all of us to recognize the signs and act,” said Shunu Shrestha, City of Minneapolis Human Trafficking and Exploitation Prevention Initiative senior advisor. “Through awareness, we can help survivors trapped in 'The Life' find a way out. Together, we can make our community healthier and safer.”
Survivor’s story: Joy Friedman
Joy Friedman, who has lived experience, is now dedicated to helping others escape exploitation and rebuild their lives.
Trafficked at the age of 15, Joy now works to create safe pathways for those experiencing sexual exploitation and substance use disorder. Joy supports her community by building strong partnerships, educating the community on recognizing the signs, and showing others where to seek help.
“No one should feel trapped in silence or isolated,” said Joy. “With the right support and resources, it’s possible to find a way out. Every life matters. I’m grateful to those who provided me with an opportunity to heal. I hope that by working together, we one day do away with Human Trafficking.”
Signs of human trafficking
Human trafficking involves the sale of a person by another person for sexual services or forced labor. It thrives in silence and survivors are often hiding in plain sight. They may show signs of substance use disorder, and seek food, shelter, or other resources. Other signs include:
- Physical abuse or neglect
- Missing school or work regularly
- Telling inconsistent or rehearsed stories
- Dating someone much older
- A history of running away or being homeless
- Sexually inappropriate pictures on social media
- Unexplained gifts, new possessions, or a person with tattoos that represent ownership
Sex Trafficking Thrives in Silence campaign
To support the City’s promise to help those experiencing sex trafficking, the Minneapolis departments of Health and Racial Equity, Inclusion & Belonging launched the “Sex Trafficking Thrives in Silence” campaign to raise awareness and provide resources to those in “The Life” and at risk.
The campaign, developed in collaboration with survivors, includes posters and social media materials to educate the public and provide resources to build healthier communities for all.
Download the campaign materials to use for your stories or web content.
“Sex trafficking is horrid, and its prevalence is striking,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “We all have a responsibility to raise awareness and prevent this exploitation from happening in our city. This campaign will help us to do just that. Thank you to our Health Department and REIB for leading this critical effort.”
Help is available
If you or someone you know is being exploited and trafficked, call 911 if they are in immediate danger. If you suspect human trafficking, email or call the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension at 877-996-6222.
For more information and resources on human trafficking, visit the City’s website.
“We all play a role in helping those in need,” said Deputy Commissioner Heidi Ritchie, Minneapolis Health Department. “Silence is not an option. It’s up to all of us to speak up when we see sexual exploitation and support survivors on their path to healing.”
Sex trafficking prevention training
The Minnesota lodging industry is an important partner in preventing sex trafficking. Training is required annually. Hotels, motels, and short-term rentals are common places for sex trafficking to happen. By learning the signs of sex trafficking, and how to respond, hotel, motel, and short-term rental staff can help prevent sex trafficking and save lives.
Minneapolis Health Department staff verify the required “back of the house” poster is displayed and review lodging employee training records in the routine health inspection process. The Health Department also sends a reminder to complete annual training in its newsletter to lodging businesses.