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A resolution recognizing January 2025 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Nashville and Davidson County.
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WHEREAS, human trafficking is defined as the recruitment, manipulation, purchasing, or obtaining of a person for the purpose of commercial sex acts or forced labor through the use of force, fraud, deception, or coercion; and
WHEREAS, human trafficking victims can be of any age, sex, race, or background, with particularly vulnerable populations including children, survivors of child abuse, runaway and homeless youth, victims of interpersonal and intimate partner violence, those struggling with substance abuse disorders, and those impacted by conflict, poverty, or the failure of systems meant to support community members in their time of need; and
WHEREAS, human trafficking encompasses prostitution, escorting, online advertisements, digital platforms, and all forms of commercial sexual exploitation; and
WHEREAS, the existence of human trafficking in today's society recognizes that for many, the perceived "choice" to sell one's body arises from a lack of safer, more accessible, and dignified options and resources; and
WHEREAS, human trafficking robs victims of their safety, freedom, and dignity, tears apart families and communities, fuels interpersonal violence, and undermines the security of society at large; and
WHEREAS, Davidson County is home to several organizations providing direct services, support and advocacy to and on behalf of survivors of human trafficking, prostitution, and commercial sexual exploitation, including but not limited to the Metropolitan Nashville Office of Family Safety, Thistle Farms, AncoraTN, and the Nashville Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, court systems, and the Davidson County District Attorney's Office have committed to combat human trafficking through legislative efforts, robust policy implementation, and collaborative partnerships aimed at eradicating this immoral enterprise; and
WHEREAS, dedicating a month to promote education, awareness, resources, and community efforts will equip Nashville residents with the tools to identify and address human trafficking, support survivors, prevent exploitation, and hold perpetrators accountable.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. The Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as recognizing January 2025 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Nashville and Davidson County, encouraging all residents to join in efforts to raise awareness, support survivors, and end human trafficking.
Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.