Support #WearBlueDay on January 11
WASHINGTON — The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Center for Countering Human Trafficking (CCHT) is urging individuals, organizations, and communities to participate in #WearBlueDay, Jan. 11, a global outreach event aimed at raising awareness about the devastating issue of human trafficking.
Human trafficking is a global crisis, with more than 27.6 million victims worldwide, including a significant number within the United States. Traffickers exploit vulnerable individuals, often targeting those facing economic hardship, psychological or emotional stressors, substance dependence challenges, lack of a social safety net, natural disasters or political instability by using coercion, fraud, and force, subjecting them to grueling conditions in industries such as agriculture, hospitality, construction, retail, and sex work. Despite its widespread reach, human trafficking remains a hidden crime that is often difficult to detect.
#WearBlueDay serves as a powerful tool to increase public awareness, educate communities, and empower individuals to recognize the signs of trafficking. By participating in this event, we can work together to identify potential victims, report suspicious activities, and ultimately save lives.
“Human trafficking is a hidden crime that devastates millions of lives worldwide, and by raising awareness through initiatives like #WearBlueDay, we can help bring it into the light,” said CCHT Director James C. Harris. “Every individual who participates in #WearBlueDay contributes to a collective effort to recognize the signs of trafficking, report suspicious activity, and ultimately protect vulnerable individuals. Together, we can make a difference in the fight to end human trafficking.”
How to Get Involved:
- Wear Blue on January 11 and encourage your friends, family, coworkers, local organizations, businesses and stakeholders to also show their support by participating.
- Share Information — Utilize the resources provided by the Blue Campaign to educate others about the signs of trafficking.
- Report Suspicious Activity — Learn how to report suspected trafficking and help create a safer environment for all.
Launched in 2020, the DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking coordinates the efforts of 16 DHS offices and components to combat human trafficking through law enforcement operations, victim protection and assistance, intelligence and analysis, partnership and engagement, and public education and training programs.
The Blue Campaign is dedicated to raising awareness about human trafficking, empowering individuals and communities to recognize and report the signs of trafficking and providing critical resources to combat this issue. Through outreach, education, and partnerships, the Blue Campaign works to fight human trafficking on a local, national, and global scale.
“#WearBlueDay is not just about wearing a color — it's about showing solidarity with those affected by human trafficking and taking action to stop it,” said CCHT acting Unit Chief for Outreach and Engagement Brandi Bynum. “This is an opportunity for all of us to educate ourselves, spread awareness, and stand together in support of the victims of this global crisis. We can all play a role in helping end human trafficking by recognizing the signs, speaking up, and making our communities safer.”
If you or someone you know suspects human trafficking, you are encouraged to report it to law enforcement — tips can be submitted anonymously online or by calling 866-347-2423.
Individuals can also contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 or humantraffickinghotline.org.