FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 10, 2023

Milwaukeeans Encouraged to Wear Blue on January 11 to Raise Awareness of Human Trafficking

MILWAUKEE – Every year, millions of men, women, and children are trafficked worldwide. On Wednesday, January 11, the Milwaukee Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) encourages all Milwaukeeans to join the Blue Campaign in #WearBlueDay, a day to raise awareness of human trafficking.

“Awareness is only the first step,” said OVP Director Ashanti Hamilton. “National Human Trafficking Awareness Day is an opportunity to have a conversation, educate ourselves and others on indicators of human trafficking, and share resources on how to protect yourself. I encourage everyone to take part in this important conversation and wear blue on January 11.”

There are many ways to get involved with #WearBlueDay:

• Plan your outfit for the day to include lots of blue – whether it's your shirt, hat, or a scarf. Use your outfit as a conversation starter with everyone you encounter.
• Snap a selfie or a group photo with your friends, family, or coworkers. Share your photo on your social media channels using the #WearBlueDay and #WBDMKE hashtags.
• Join the Milwaukee Commission on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault’s Sexual Assault Committee on Wednesday, January 11 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. for a virtual presentation on sex trafficking.
  • Presented by S. Michele Cohen, PhD, MA, LPC, LCPC.
  • Join via Zoom
  • Meeting ID: 818 4910 5054
  • Passcode: 135821
• Visit the City Hall Rotunda (200 E. Wells Street) to get your own blue ribbon to wear throughout the day and pick up resources and information about human trafficking.
• Take time to join the anti-trafficking movement, learn the indicators of human trafficking, educate yourself with curated resources, and share your knowledge with others in your life.

Anyone can make a difference by raising awareness about this crime, and even a small action like wearing blue can help increase education, prioritize safety, and save lives. If you or anyone you know is in danger of human trafficking or sexual violence and needs a safe, trusted place to turn, the We Are Here MKE Collective is available with welcoming, inclusive support and resources. For victim support from the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) call 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to Befree (2333733).

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