The McGill family embarked on a groundbreaking initiative, dedicating a Saturday to collaborate with the Center for Human Trafficking Research and Training at The University of Southern Mississippi. This marked the launch of the inaugural “SOAP Up Hattiesburg” conference, a pivotal step in the relentless fight against human trafficking.
In our hands-on efforts, distinctive red stickers were affixed to hotel soap bars, each bearing a lifeline for those seeking help along with the National Human Trafficking Hotline number (1-888-373-7888). The event unfolded at the Trent Lott Center, serving as a central hub for impactful initiatives.
“SOAP Up Hattiesburg,” masterminded by the organization SOAP (Save Our Adolescents from Prostitution) and the student group Coalition Against Human Trafficking, confronted the pervasive issue of human trafficking head-on. Volunteers passionately mobilized, distributing thousands of soap bars and makeup removal wipes to hotels and motels across the Hattiesburg/Pine Belt area.
Human Trafficking Statistics
The stark reality emerges—human trafficking stands as the second most profitable criminal activity in the U.S., with estimates suggesting up to 27 million individuals worldwide enduring modern-day slavery. Shockingly, 50% of victims are children, and 80% are women and girls. Annually, the trafficking industry reaps $32 billion, while 244,000 American children and youth remain at risk of exploitation.
Amplifying the urgency, the average age of entry into sex trafficking is a heart-wrenching 12-14 years old. Despite the gravity of this crisis, legislative responses fall short. Current penalties for trafficking pale in comparison to those for drug-related offenses, highlighting a disturbing imbalance.
Research insights reveal that 57% of victims are deceived, 40% are family or friends, and a mere 3% are kidnapped. The Polaris Survivor Survey unveils the involvement of hotels and motels in trafficking, where 80% of commercial sex occurs. Additionally, 47% of victims seek shelter during their exit, and 69% of traffickers exploit hotels in their nefarious activities.
Mobilizing Against Human Trafficking on the Gulf Coast
As Michael McGill, Congressional Candidate for Mississippi’s 4th Congressional District, emphasizes the urgent need for action against human trafficking on the Gulf Coast, the gravity of the situation becomes undeniably clear. With over 424 hotels in the region and the critical I-10 corridor identified as a major route for trafficking, the Gulf Coast emerges as a hotspot for these heinous activities.
Despite Mississippi ranking #10 in human trafficking cases, the current Congress appears to turn a blind eye. Driven by an unwavering commitment to address this critical issue, McGill expresses his determination to host this the impactful event on the Gulf Coast. The objective is clear—rally volunteers, raise awareness, and foster a united front against this grave injustice that tarnishes the very fabric of our society.
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