Montgomery Marks January as ‘Human Trafficking Prevention Month’

On Tuesday, Jan. 11, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and the Montgomery County Council will proclaim January as “Human Trafficking Prevention Month” in the County.

Seal of Montgomery County, MarylandIn 2014, the Montgomery County Human Trafficking Task Force was created. The purpose of the task force is to increase understanding of the issue in Montgomery County and to develop interagency coordination of strategies for response and prevention. In October 2017, the task force transitioned into the Montgomery County Human Trafficking Prevention Committee.

According to a County press release, County programming surrounding human trafficking prevention will include:

On Jan. 20 a virtual two-panel program will be held to gain insights from experienced government officials on recent developments in U.S. anti-trafficking policies and programs, and important international issues in the anti-trafficking field. Speakers will include officials from the departments of Justice, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Labor, and other agencies and organizations. Dr. Kari Johnstone, acting director of the State Department Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, will deliver a keynote. Register here.

On Jan. 25, the committee will partner with the Prince George’s County Human Trafficking Task Force, the Homeless Persons Representation Project, and Amara Legal Center to present an online discussion entitled, “Know Your Rights: Tools for 2022.” The online presentation is free and begins at 5 p.m. No registration is needed. Join via Zoom. (Meeting ID: 839 1163 5943 Passcode: 375685)

In addition to online programming, the committee will sponsor a social media campaign throughout the month highlighting human trafficking prevention.

Read the full press release.
Learn more about resources in Montgomery County.
Learn more about the Montgomery County Human Trafficking Prevention Committee