July 30 is recognized by the United Nations as World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, and Delta is empowering employees and customers to join the fight against human trafficking.
As a leader in the fight against trafficking since 2011, Delta is recognizing this day by raising awareness of the fast-growing crime that takes place both on the ground and in the air. This week, Delta flight crews are making onboard announcements directing customers to the airline’s anti-trafficking video, inviting the extended Delta family to take a stand in the fight.
“With an estimated 71 percent of human trafficking victims reporting travelling on planes while being recruited, it is our duty to respond with boldness,” said Allison Ausband, Senior Vice President — In-Flight Service and Executive Sponsor of the #GetOnBoard Campaign. “Today, we have an opportunity to speak up, take action and continue our commitment to eradicate slavery in the cities where we live, fly and serve.”
So far, Delta has trained 66,000 of its 80,000 employees to spot signs of trafficking. Here are six actions customers can take to join us in the fight:
Learn the signs of human trafficking.
Recognizing the signs of human trafficking can save lives. Polaris has outlined indicators of trafficking, including:
The individual is afraid, tense, depressed or submissive.
Victims exhibit unusually fearful or anxious behaviour after bringing up law enforcement.
Signs of substance use or addiction.
Poor hygiene, malnourishment and/or fatigue.
The victim has few or no personal possessions.
They are frequently monitored.
The victim has no control over money, identification or free speech.
Multiple indicators are often present in trafficking scenarios. Delta is encouraging everyone to learn these signs so when recognized, they can be reported to the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
Save the National Human Trafficking Hotline number in your phone.
The National Hotline offers round-the-clock access to a safe space to report tips, seek services and ask for help. In 2017, Delta supported the hotline with a $1 million commitment and has since seen a 19 percent increase in calls.
The National Human Trafficking Hotline can be accessed by calling 1-888-373-7888, or by sending a text to Polaris at “BeFree” (233733).
Lobby for anti-trafficking legislation.
Delta has successfully lobbied for anti-trafficking bills over the past few years that protect survivors locally and nationally. The company is currently supporting GA House Bill 234: Anti-Human Trafficking Protective Response Act. In addition, Delta has partnered with Seattle on an awareness campaign in the Pacific Northwest, and employees also participate in regular fly-in visits to D.C. to connect with members of Congress and fight for legislation that supports survivors. These efforts have been recently recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
With Delta’s advocacy, 2019 has been a historical year for human trafficking legislation in Georgia. Three major bills were signed into law – SB 158, HB 281 and HB 424 – to better protect children and prosecute traffickers.
On a national scale, Polaris has created a petition urging Congress to pass legislation that will help find traffickers and hold them accountable. Go here to sign it today.
Give your support.
There are many communities struggling to raise awareness for human trafficking and even more survivors who need help. Polaris has set up global support networks and provides opportunities for people all around the world to lend a helping hand. Take part in their work here.
Donate miles to survivors through SkyWish.
All Delta SkyMiles members can now donate miles to Polaris through our SkyWish program at delta.com to cover the airfare that survivors need to return home, receive critical services, reunite with their families or engage in survivor leadership opportunities.
Support ethical labour conditions to fight forced labour.
Victims of human trafficking are often trapped in forced labour. Globally, the International Labor Organization estimates there are 20.1 million people who are victims of labour exploitation and labour trafficking in industries including agriculture, construction, domestic work and manufacturing.
Delta’s anti-trafficking policy firmly commits to social responsibility in all of our operation, including a strategic sourcing process that defines how we work with suppliers to ensure they are operating to our standards. Delta people can join in the fight against labour trafficking by making purchasing decisions that support ethical labour conditions.
By Molly Harrell
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