January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Every year since 2010, the President of the United States has dedicated the month to raise awareness about human trafficking and to educate the public about how to identify and prevent this crime. The United States Department of State raises awareness of human trafficking domestically and abroad, through United States embassies and consulates.
During this month, we celebrate the efforts of foreign governments, international organizations, anti-trafficking entities, law enforcement officials, survivor advocates, communities of faith, businesses, and private citizens all around the world to raise awareness about human trafficking.
Human trafficking — whether in the form of forced labor, sex trafficking, or other offenses — is an abhorrent abuse of power and a profoundly immoral crime that strikes at the safety, health, and dignity of millions of people worldwide. During National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, we reaffirm our commitment to protect and empower survivors of all forms of human trafficking, to prosecute traffickers, and to bring an end to human trafficking in the United States and around the world.
On Saturday, January 28, 2023, Bella Levy Foundation presented its inaugural Royal Blue Ribbon Gala, aligning the mission statement of the foundation to unite the community and help provide awareness, education, and preventative methods against human trafficking. The royal blue celebrity and star-studded event was held at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Baltimore Downtown Convention Center Area, 100 North Eutaw Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201. Opening ceremonies commenced at 4 p.m. ET. Attendees were encouraged to wear royal blue evening formal attire to the event.
Shefik, as an ambassador of hope, appeared as a Keynote Speaker during the gala, which was supported by the United States Navy Color Guard, along with Master Chief Amaury Ponciano.
Bella Levy Foundation (founded by Bella Levy) was created to educate in the prevention of human trafficking, child abduction, and support for neglected youths and young adults. The foundation understands abused victims will carry shame and guilt throughout their life and effects of abuse. The foundation provides programs serving abused youths and adults who are survivors of sex trafficking and forms of mistreatment.
There are estimated to be more than 27.6 million people — adults and children — subjected to human trafficking around the world, including in the United States. Traffickers often take advantage of instability caused by natural disasters, conflict, or a pandemic to exploit others. During the COVID-19 pandemic, traffickers are continuing to perpetrate the crime, finding ways to innovate and capitalize on the chaos.
Last Updated: February 7, 2023
