How to Prevent Human Trafficking

Human trafficking usually refers to the action of transporting people illicitly to do illegal activities, which include forced labour, sexual activities, and other possible drug trade activities. Poverty, sexism, racism, wage inequality, lack of education, social support, and employment opportunities are all factors that contribute to human trafficking. Canada divides its effort to combat human trafficking into four sections: the […]

Unmasking the Dark Reality of Human Trafficking: A Call for Unity and Vigilance

By: Emily A mother once declared, “My family is finally complete,” and a sister rejoiced, “My younger brother returned, just as I imagined.” A brother, filled with anticipation, exclaimed, “I will love him, for he is my long-lost sibling.” These heartfelt sentiments stem from a simple family that endured unimaginable pain. Fourteen years ago, their son was trafficked, all because […]

Orange Shirt Day: Commemorating Indigenous Resilience and Combating Human Trafficking in Canada

Orange Shirt Day, observed annually on September 30th, was initiated in 2013 to remember the impact of residential schools on Indigenous children and communities. The event takes its name from the story of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, who had her new orange shirt taken away upon her arrival at a residential school. The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of identity, culture, […]

Unveiling the Hidden Scars: The Physical and Psychological Aftermath of Human Trafficking

Physical Health Consequences Human trafficking victims endure severe physical health consequences resulting from the abuse and exploitation they experience. Traffickers subject their victims to physical violence, neglect, and gruelling labour, causing a wide range of injuries such as fractures, burns, and wounds. A study by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that 43% of trafficked individuals experienced physical violence […]

Andrew Tate, “King of Toxic Masculinity”; The Human Trafficking Investigation

TW: Sexual assault, violence, misogyny, and sex trafficking Andrew Tate, dubbed the “King of Toxic Masculinity,”  is a former professional kickboxer and internet personality. The newly-banned TikTok star recently received backlash for his controversial and misogynistic messages, broadcasted on some of the largest platforms in the world. Recently, he tweeted that women are a man’s physical and financial property and […]

The Digital Tracks of Trafficking

The rise of the Internet and digital platforms allow many around the world to perform activities with ease and flexibility, bridging the gaps of distance and income. However, with this, human traffickers have also gained advantages by exploiting digital systems, expanding their reach to many more.  As traditional barriers of physical and geological limitations are removed and the tools offered […]

Fame as Bait: The Sex Trafficking Case of R. Kelly

By: Daphne Trigger Warning: The following content includes topics that may be triggering. Reader discretion is advised. “This case is not about a celebrity who likes to party a lot. This case is about a predator,” Maria Cruz Melendez, assistant US attorney, told the jury during the first day of the R. Kelly federal trial in New York.  Elizabeth Geddes, […]

World Day Against Human Trafficking: Joining Hands to End Modern Slavery

Human trafficking is a global crisis that knows no borders, affecting millions of individuals across the world. It is a modern-day form of slavery that strips individuals of their freedom, dignity, and basic human rights. To combat this grave issue, the international community has united to observe World Day Against Human Trafficking on July 30th annually. This day serves as […]

Project Harwich : The Effects of Cogent Strategization

Police forces across Ontario have recently introduced a new human trafficking strategy: the Provincial Human Trafficking Intelligence-led Joint Forces Strategy (IJFS). The development of IJFS is a part of the province’s five-year anti-human trafficking plan. Since its launch in 2020, the provincial authorities have improved in their precision, making over 50 charges following the strategy’s execution. One case in particular […]

Illuminating Human Trafficking in Canada on Canada Day: A Call to Protect the Vulnerable

By Sophia Morphy Introduction On the cherished occasion of Canada Day, as the nation celebrates its values of freedom, equality, and justice, it is crucial to reflect on the less visible challenges that persist within our borders. While Canada stands as a beacon of hope for many, it also grapples with the shadowy crime of human trafficking. Human trafficking is […]