Jan. 11 marks National Human Trafficking Awareness Day [Video]

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Human trafficking affects millions of people worldwide each year, exploiting men, women and children through forced labor and sex work. This crime knows no boundaries, targeting individuals across all races, genders and socioeconomic backgrounds, according to the U.S. State Department.

Contrary to common misconceptions, human trafficking impacts not only women and young girls but also men and young boys.

On Saturday, Jan. 11, the nation observes National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, also known as #WearBlueDay. This day is recognized by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to highlight the fight against human trafficking.

To show support and raise awareness, people are encouraged to wear blue, symbolizing the cause, and tag the DHS Blue Campaign on social media using the hashtag #WearBlueDay.

“Human trafficking just isn’t sex trafficking. I think in the media and in movies, it’s primarily shown as that. But in some parts of the United States and in …