Human trafficking, a contemporary manifestation of slavery, is present in all states, including Kansas. The National Human Trafficking Hotline reports 672 documented cases of human trafficking in Kansas, revealing 1,409 identified victims.
Nevertheless, these figures probably only capture a small portion of the true incidents, as numerous cases remain concealed due to fear, shame, and a lack of awareness.
Wichita: The City Having the Highest Human Trafficking Rate
Wichita is the Kansas city with the greatest rate of human trafficking in the state. With over 390,000 residents, Wichita is the biggest city in Kansas. With interstate highways, railroads, and an international airport, it serves as a significant hub for transportation as well.
Due to these reasons, traffickers who take advantage of weak people for forced labor or commercial sex find Wichita to be a desirable location.
The Wichita Police Department reports that there were 85 occurrences of human trafficking in 2020, which is 40% more than in 2019.Six of these cases concerned labor trafficking, while 79 involved sex trafficking.
The victims were mostly female, and their ages ranged from 12 to 62. Most of the traffickers were from Wichita as well; some of them were involved in organized crime or gangs.
Efforts to Reduce the Rate of Human Trafficking
The Wichita Police Department operates a specialized Human Trafficking Unit, collaborating closely with local, state, and federal agencies to investigate and prosecute cases related to human trafficking.
This unit is also committed to providing training and education to various groups, including law enforcement, community organizations, and schools, with a focus on identifying and reporting human trafficking incidents.
Additionally, they forge partnerships with non-governmental organizations, such as ICT SOS, a Wichita-based nonprofit dedicated to preventing and ending human trafficking in the city.
ICT SOS offers resources, referrals, and advocacy for victims and survivors, along with implementing prevention and awareness programs for both youth and adults. The organization plays a crucial role in coordinating a network of volunteers, professionals, and agencies working collaboratively to combat human trafficking in Wichita.
Another notable organization in this effort is Rise Up For Youth, a mentoring program designed to empower at-risk youth in overcoming challenges and achieving their goals.
Serving students from sixth grade through high school graduation, the program provides academic support, life skills training, career guidance, and positive role models. Additionally, Rise Up For Youth educates students about the dangers and signs of human trafficking, equipping them to protect themselves and their peers.
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To Conclude
The persistent issue of human trafficking is a sad stain on society, and Wichita, Kansas, represents a microcosm of this intricate problem. The city is actively retaliating despite the concerning statistics and ongoing exploitation.
A way forward is made clear by the unwavering efforts of the Wichita Police Department, groups like ICT SOS and Rise Up For Youth, and several people.
Communities still need education and awareness campaigns to be able to identify and report suspected cases of human trafficking.
The safety net for those in need is reinforced by funding groups like ICT SOS and Rise Up For Youth. These organizations give victims an opportunity for recovery and a future free from exploitation by working together, speaking out, and offering resources.
Recall that each and every person can contribute to the destruction of this abusive system. Remain educated, report any suspicious activity, and provide your support to the groups that are putting a stop to human trafficking. We can all have better futures if we work together.
