The horrors and complexities of human trafficking

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time set aside to raise awareness about one of the fastest-growing illegal industries in the world.

Each year, millions of adults and children fall victim to sexual exploitation, forced labor, or both. In this episode, we confront the harsh realities of human trafficking in Middle Tennessee and the broader state. We explore who is affected and learn about the efforts of local enforcement, nonprofits and community leaders who work to prevent this crime and support the survivors. And we learn how individuals and communities can take action to recognize the signs of trafficking and make a difference in the lives of those affected.

LISTENER NOTE: This episode contains stories of real experiences of human trafficking with references to sexual assault, physical abuse, drug use and child abuse.

This episode was produced by Mary Mancini and Josh Deepen.

Guests

• Christina Meadows | Director of Operations and Rescue, Nashville Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition (NAHT); Trafficked for over 20 years
• Monti Herring | Director of Educate to Recognize, Nashville Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition (NAHT)
• Terrié Moore | 2022 Graduate of Thistle Farms and Executive Assistant to the CEO of Thistle Farms; Advocate in the Tennessee Businesses Against Trafficking
• Jeremy Lofquest | Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) of Human Trafficking Unit, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation

Resources

• If you suspect someone may be a victim of human trafficking, call the Tennessee Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-855-55-TNHTH (1-855-558-6484), the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 (TTY:711) or text 233733 (text “HELP” or “INFO”)
• Ithastostop.com provides information and resources about human trafficking in Tennessee. Learn common warning signs of sex and labor trafficking, how you can help and what to do if you suspect someone is being trafficked. (This website is an outreach of the TBI)
• Human Trafficking: How to Spot the Signs and What to Do (Thistle Farms)
• Visit the NAHT website to book an Educate To Recognize presentation.
• Thistle Farms opens new home where women survivors can go to heal (NewsChannel 5)
• ‘A large-scale investigation’: MNPD provides details on men charged with promoting prostitution (WKRN)
• AncoraTN serves a large portion of Middle Tennessee and works as the single point of contact Tennessee Counter-Trafficking Alliance partner for our region