2026 Anti-Human Trafficking Awareness Essay Competition

Now open – Due March 14, 2026

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Human Trafficking. Modern Day Slavery.

In 2019, there were 511 reported cases of human trafficking,
a 44% increase compared to 2018.
Human trafficking victims are exploited economically
and are often treated in inhumane conditions.

It’s time to take action.

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In Canada…

0%

Of Canadians

Are unable to tell if someone is a victim of trafficking.

0%

Of Victims

Are women/girls/female identifying.

0%

Of Reported Cases

Took place in urbanized cities.

What is Human Trafficking?

Human trafficking exploits individuals for labor and services, often beginning with a deceptive lure, like the promise of a new job. Once ensnared, victims may find themselves forced to work long hours without pay. Trapped in this dire situation where traffickers are a constant threat, victims often lack the money, identification, and opportunities to put freedom back in sight.

  • Myths & Debunkers #1
  • Myths & Debunkers #2
  • Myths & Debunkers #3
  • Myths & Debunkers #4
  • Myths & Debunkers #5

Myth

All Human Traffickers are Strangers to Their Victims

Reality

Traffickers can be strangers, but they can also be acquaintances, friends, family members, or romantic partners of the victims. They often use relationships and trust to lure victims. In fact, 90+% of victims were trafficked by someone they know.

Myth

Victims Must Be Physically Restrained or Locked Up to Be Trafficked

Reality

Traffickers often use psychological means to control their victims, such as threats, manipulation, debt bondage, and abuse of legal processes. Physical restraint is not always necessary for exploitation.

Myth

Human Trafficking Requires Transportation Across Borders

Reality

Human trafficking does not necessarily involve movement across borders. Many victims are trafficked within their own countries. The key element of trafficking is the exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion, regardless of whether transportation is involved.

Myth

Human Trafficking Only Happens in Poor or Developing Countries

Reality

Human trafficking occurs in every country, including wealthy and developed nations. It is a global issue that affects urban and rural areas alike.

Myth

Victims of Human Trafficking Are Always Poor

Reality

While poverty can increase vulnerability to trafficking, victims come from various socioeconomic backgrounds. Other factors, such as political instability, lack of social support, and previous abuse, can also contribute to vulnerability.

See Anti-Trafficking Resources

What is DAWN Against Trafficking?

DAWN (Domestic and Worldwide Network) Against Trafficking is a youth-led anti-trafficking nonprofit based in the GTA.
At DAWN, we aim to educate the public on the topic of human trafficking—what it is, why it happens, and how to prevent it.

Our Work

Since our founding in 2021, we have:

… this is just the start.

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Awareness is the first step to making change, but it’s not enough. Above all, we must take action towards making the change we want to see.

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