The Top Twelve Things Men Can Do To Help End Human Trafficking

1.  Understand that human trafficking victims are often forced to participate in pornography and prostitution against their will.  They are the victims of criminal activity.

2.  Recognize the danger of pornography as being unhealthy and addictive.  Pornography, time and time again, sexualizes women and instills the belief that the sex acts portrayed are normal.  It also repeatedly degrades and humiliates women with acts of violence coupled with pain and suffering.

3.  Make a paradigm shift from the belief that “women are prostitutes” to “women are prostituted” and that many women do not freely choose this lifestyle.  Choice involves options and opportunity.

4.  Realize that prostitution inflicts enormous physical and psychological damage on the victim and that sexual abuse is the norm.

5.  Understand that a pimp is someone who makes a living off of intimidation, psychological manipulation, physical force and violence imposed on another human being.   A pimp is not someone who creates glamour or beauty.  The the use of the word “pimping” should not be used as an expression of value.

6.  Eliminate strip clubs, raunchy bachelor parties and x-rated movies from entertainment options for you and your sons. Find ways to express manhood and male bonding that don’t involve male dominance or control over women.

7.  “Raise the bar” for your sons regarding your expectation of their respect for women, sex and family.

8.  Be a good role model for your children in your actions, words and deeds.  Drop the “good ole boys” view of sexual exploits and attitudes often found in male dominate environments such as sports bars, golf courses, fraternities, locker rooms, etc.

9.   Create a curriculum for fathers that would aid in the discussion and education of what sustainable, loving relationships and healthy, fulfilling sex should look like for both sons and daughters.

10.  Learn more about human trafficking and educate others while engaging in activism that supports the end of modern day slavery.

11.  Support anti-trafficking organizations and policies and/or laws that help to stem the tide of modern day slavery and human trafficking.

12.  Create change using your gifts, talents and knowledge through the use of the written word, public speaking, volunteerism, responsible consumerism, cybervision and watchful observation of potential human trafficking situations that need to be reported to the toll-free national hotline, 1-888-3737-888.