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A Resolution to bring awareness to human trafficking in Tennessee and to encourage the hospitality industry in Nashville to post signage and attend workshops concerning human trafficking.
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WHEREAS, human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery in which victims are forced to work in various forms of exploitation, including debt bondage, forced marriage, labor and commercial sexual exploitation that are induced through force, fraud, or coercion; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County is committed to becoming a trafficking free zone ensuring that our community is prepared to recognize the signs of human trafficking; and
WHEREAS, a rise in Nashville tourists seeking entertainment, including commercial sex, increases the potential risk for exploitation and human trafficking. Traffickers will often seek major events and heavily populated areas for an opportunity to profit with little risk of penalty or punishment; and
WHEREAS, due to the isolated nature of this crime, many individuals are unaware that human trafficking exists in their neighborhoods. The first step is to educate through human trafficking awareness and recognition workshops. Nashville must work together to first educate and teach others how to spot this issue; and
WHEREAS, all lodging establishments in the hospitality industry are strongly encouraged to post signage concerning human trafficking. The signage should be at least 8 ½ by 11 inches and posted near the entrance where it is in clear view for the public and employees. The signage should provide information for assistance as well as a tip line to report suspected activity; and
WHEREAS, the increase of human trafficking awareness and recognition workshops disseminated within the hospitality industry will lead to actionable solutions by law enforcement and nonprofit liaisons working together to combat human trafficking. The hospitality industry is strongly encouraged to get involved in combating human trafficking by hosting live, in-person workshops offered in English and Spanish; and
WHEREAS, local law enforcement is overworked and understaffed all while attempting to field complaints and tips involving human trafficking. As workshops certify citizens across Tennessee, additional information regarding this activity will be supplied to law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, nonprofits, and local leaders; and
WHEREAS, to reduce obstacles for law enforcement, official nonprofits or NGO’s certified in human trafficking investigations will assist in the overall investigative stage of a potential case. Licensed private investigators with human trafficking training may investigate incoming tips and will work parallel to law enforcement to enforce the laws pertaining to human trafficking.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing the dangers and prevalence of human trafficking and encouraging the hospitality industry in Nashville to post signage and attend workshops concerning 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.