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National Human Trafficking Awareness Day

Help make a difference on National Human Trafficking Awareness Day - take action to support survivors, donate to anti-trafficking organizations, and spread awareness.

Monday

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 11

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYSocial Justice

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

January 11 marks the annual observance of National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, a day to recognize and celebrate victims who have been able to escape human trafficking. This important day was established in 2007 by Congress as an effort to raise awareness about this global issue and encourage people to take action against it. It is estimated that over 40 million people are currently being trafficked around the world, so let's work together make sure everyone has access to safety and freedom from exploitation.

TIMELINE

National Human Trafficking Awareness Day Timeline

TVPA Passes in U.S.

The U.S. Congress passes the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA), significant legislation which acknowledges and addresses human trafficking.

United Nations Protocol

The Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children, officially goes into effect under the United Nations framework.

National Human Trafficking Hotline

The National Human Trafficking Hotline is created in the U.S. to provide emergency help and services to victims.

First National Awareness Day

President Barack Obama proclaims January as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and January 11 is named National Human Trafficking Awareness Day.

Blue Campaign Establishment

The Department of Homeland Security launches the Blue Campaign, an initiative to combat human trafficking through education and outreach.

Expanded Global Efforts

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, global efforts to combat human trafficking are highlighted with increased digital surveillance and victim support systems.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Human Trafficking Awareness Day

Educate yourself

Take the time to learn about human trafficking, its causes, and its effects. Read books, watch documentaries, and research online to get a better understanding of the issue.

DONATE

Donate

Donating to organizations that fight human trafficking is a great way to make a difference. Consider giving money, time or volunteer your services.

RAISE

Raise awareness

Share information about human trafficking in your community and on social media. Host an event or join an existing movement to raise awareness of the issue.

ADVOCATE

Advocate for change

Write letters to your representatives to let them know you care about human trafficking and would like them to take action. Start petitions on change.org or even start your own organization!

SUPPORT

Support survivors

One of the most impactful ways you can support National Human Trafficking Awareness Day is by supporting survivors of human trafficking and those who work with survivors. Make sure they have access to medical care, legal aid, and other vital resources.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Human Trafficking Awareness Day is Important

It inspires people to get involved

When more people become aware of the prevalence of human trafficking in our world today, it naturally leads them to want to make a difference. National Human Trafficking Awareness Day not only encourages us to learn about this issue but also gives us the opportunity to take part in initiatives aimed at preventing it from happening in the first place.

It raises awareness of the issue

National Human Trafficking Awareness Day serves as a reminder that human trafficking is still an ongoing problem. By spreading knowledge about this crime, it encourages conversations about what we can do to prevent it and help those who may be victims of it.

It helps bring justice to those affected

By creating awareness around human trafficking, it helps create an environment in which survivors can come forward and seek help without fear or shame. This increased visibility also pressure governments and institutions to take action against perpetrators, providing more opportunities for victims to receive justice.

Related holidays

THU

Jul 2026

Awareness

World Day Against Trafficking in Persons

Join us in the fight against human trafficking on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons - together, we can make a difference and bring justice to victims.

National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Join the fight against slavery and human trafficking this National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month - every action counts!

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery

On International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, let's raise awareness and take action to end modern day slavery in all its forms.

World Day of Fight against Sexual Exploitation

An awareness observance on March 4 raising awareness about sexual exploitation and human trafficking, promoting protection of victims and global action against this human rights violation.

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