hu·man traf·fick·ing
crime
The exploitation of a person in order to solicit a benefit to the trafficker such as labour, financial gain or sexual gain.
Our Campaign
Youth Activist Inc's goal for this campaign is to both raise awareness and educate about the dangers of human trafficking. We've created a series of three videos highlighting the impact of social media on human trafficking as well as the myths and misconceptions around the issue.
The Dangers of Social Media
Myths & Misconceptions
An In-Depth Look at Human Trafficking
Resources & Services
Signs of Human Trafficking
Being constantly controlled or watched by one person or a group of people, or escorted at all times
Having a debt to pay back for things like clothing, accommodation or other gifts
Not being allowed to contact friends or family
Not having any I.D. in their possession, for example, a passport or drivers’ license
Having bruises or other signs of physical abuse
Suddenly having expensive clothing, accessories or other premium items
Avoiding eye contact and/or appearing to be fearful, nervous or submissive, especially in the presence of their partner
Feeling alone and powerless with nowhere and no one else to turn to
Being moved often and claiming to be “new” or “just visiting”
Not having any I.D. in their possession, for example, a passport or drivers’ license
Being moved often and claiming to be “new” or “just visiting”
Having bruises or other signs of physical abuse
Myths & Misconceptions
Myth
Fact
- Human trafficking only happens to girls and women
- Human trafficking does happen primarily to females, but males can also be victims
- Human trafficking only happens underground or behind closed doors
- Human trafficking actually happens in plain sight, everywhere around us
- Human trafficking is only forced labour
- Human trafficking can take on many forms, including forced labour in poor working conditions, an abusive or manipulative relationship or forced sex work
- Human trafficking only happens internationally
- Human trafficking most often happens within North American borders
Statistics
From Statistics Canada
1,708
Police-reported incidents of human trafficking since 2009.
51%
Of accused traffickers were over the age of 55
28%
Of human trafficking victims were under the age of 18
97%
Of police-reported human trafficking victims were women and girls
358
Days was the average time to process cases of human trafficking, nearly double the time for cases involving other violent offenses
81%
Of accused traffickers since 2009 have been men
28%
Of human trafficking victims were under the age of 18
81%
Of accused traffickers since 2009 have been men
About Youth Activists Inc
Youth Activists Inc. (YAI), is a non-profit organization focusing on the development of youth leadership skills, community organizing, and advocacy for youth related issues within the province of Ontario. Started in February 2019, YAI strives to push young people to advocate for issues that matter to them with their tagline “Ignite Your Passion’’.
Funded in part by
