Human Trafficking Awareness: CVSA Sets New Dates for January 2025

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has announced the dates for its 2025 Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative (HTAI). This important program works to fight human trafficking across North America. The initiative will take place:

• January 13–17, 2025, in the United States
• February 17–21, 2025, in Canada
• March 17–21, 2025, in Mexico

What Is the Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative?

The HTAI is a five-day event held annually in each CVSA member country. Its goal is to educate commercial drivers, trucking companies, law enforcement, and the public about human trafficking. This crime involves forcing or tricking people into working or being exploited for profit. Victims can include men, women, and children from all walks of life.

According to the United Nations, human traffickers use violence, fraud, and lies to trap victims. They often make false promises of jobs or education to gain control. Human trafficking happens everywhere, including in North America.

Tools and Resources for Fighting Trafficking

To help spread awareness, CVSA is partnering with Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT). They are providing free tools like wallet cards, posters, and window decals. These resources teach people how to spot signs of trafficking and what to do if they see it. CVSA members can order these materials online through the CVSA website.

During the initiative, each participating country will run awareness campaigns. These may include handing out educational materials, holding training sessions, and running outreach programs. Results from the campaigns will be shared in the summer of 2025.

How Drivers Can Help with Human Trafficking Awareness

Truck drivers and motor carriers are in a key position to help fight human trafficking. They travel the highways and stop at rest areas where trafficking may occur. Learning the warning signs and knowing how to act can make a big difference.

CVSA encourages drivers and companies to contact their state, province, or territory’s commercial vehicle safety agency. These agencies can share details about local efforts to raise awareness.

CVSA’s Commitment to Ending Trafficking

The Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative is part of CVSA’s larger Human Trafficking Prevention Program. This program works to reduce trafficking by coordinating education, enforcement, and outreach in the trucking industry.

By working together, CVSA and the commercial motor vehicle industry are helping to protect victims and stop trafficking.

For more details about the initiative and how to get involved, visit the CVSA website.