Each year, an estimated 600,000-800,000 men, women, and children are trafficked across international borders (some international and non-governmental organizations place the number far higher), and the trade is growing. Also, an estimated 14,500 and 17,500 people are trafficked to the United States annually (TIP Report 2004).

Washington State is unique in the fact that it borders the ocean and a foreign country. Not only is Seattle a major northwest city, and a huge port destination, but it is also a gateway for interstate transit. Washington State is well known for its agricultural sector and the need for work in this industry is high.

These factors make Washington State very attractive to traffickers. Communities took note of this and responded by drafting a state law, the first in the nation to combat human trafficking. The Governor also enacted a Task Force to make recommendations for solutions to the problem. The Task Force continued for two years. If you would like to see the Washington State Anti-Trafficking Task Force Recommendations Booklet please click the following link: http://www.cted.wa.gov/_cted/documents/ID_29_Publications.pdf

Trafficking of persons is illegal! If you were trafficked into the United States and forced in involuntary servitude, sex, or labor, there is a way out! You can be free!