Authorities say they know victims of human trafficking are being transported through the Sault Ste. Marie area.
Now, the Sault Ste. Marie Airport and others have partnered with an organization whose goal is to educate and raise awareness regarding human trafficking in aviation in Canada.
#NotInMyCity’s goal is to raise awareness and taking collective action to prevent, disrupt and end sexual exploitation and trafficking, focusing on children and youth.
In the transport sector, #NotInMyCity helps to address human trafficking across several sectors, including the aviation industry.
The Sault Ste. Marie Airport will implement an e-learning and awareness program. The purpose of the program is to:
· Provide all airport employees and stakeholders with awareness about sexual exploitation and human trafficking
· Allow airport employees to understand the signs of human trafficking, and know what to do if they suspect trafficking
· Implement informational signage and materials throughout the airport for all stakeholders and the travelling public
· Report any and all signs of human trafficking, without causing harm
"Collaborating with engaged partners in our community will enhance public safety,” chief Hugh Stevenson of the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service said in a news release.
“We know victims are transported through the Sault Ste. Marie area. We continue to work to protect vulnerable people from predators who want to profit by victimizing others."
Human trafficking is one of the fastest growing crimes in Canada and is the second largest source of illegal income worldwide. In Canada, 20 per cent of trafficking victims are under the age of 18.
While making up less than 5 per cent of the country’s population, 50 percent of Canada’s trafficking victims are Indigenous people.
According to the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking, transportation corridors are frequently used by traffickers.
Once a victim has been recruited, traffickers will often move them from city to city to maximize profits, access new markets and avoid competition.
It also helps keep control of the victim who may not know where they are or how to get help, making it easier for traffickers to evade detection by police.
Victims of labour trafficking may also enter Canada by way of air travel, under the false promise of a job or educational opportunity.
#NotInMyCity offers an interactive e-learning course for anyone interested in learning more about the issue of human trafficking and sexual exploitation in Canada. It was developed in collaboration with national and international thought leaders. Upon completion of the free 30-minute e-course, participants are awarded with a certificate. Thousands of individuals have completed the course so far.
In Ontario, anyone can call Canada’s Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010 if they believe they witnessing or are experiencing human trafficking or sexual exploitation. If anyone is in immediate danger, it is recommended to call 911.
Learn more at notinmycity.ca.