Atlanta’s role as a global gateway brings pride—and responsibility. On Wednesday morning, leaders from across government, law enforcement, aviation, education, and the nonprofit sector gathered at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to reaffirm a shared commitment to ending human trafficking in the city and across the region.
The press conference marked Human Trafficking Awareness Month, but speakers emphasized that prevention and enforcement efforts in Atlanta continue year-round.
A global city with a local responsibility
As the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson sees tens of thousands of travelers each day. For most, it is simply a stop along the way. For others, airports can become points of exploitation when traffickers rely on anonymity and silence.
Mayor Andre Dickens stressed that Atlanta will not allow that silence to persist. The city’s approach centers on vigilance, accountability, and collaboration—making clear that traffickers are not welcome here.
Human trafficking remains one of the fastest-growing criminal enterprises worldwide. In Georgia, the average age of a trafficking victim is just under 15 years old, underscoring the urgency of prevention and early intervention.
Collaboration across sectors
The morning highlighted how coordinated efforts strengthen prevention. Airport employees are trained to recognize warning signs. Law enforcement agencies—including the Atlanta Police Department—work closely with prosecutors and state partners to investigate and hold traffickers accountable. Airlines such as Delta Air Lines support awareness initiatives, while advocacy organizations and faith-based partners focus on survivor care and youth prevention.
Speakers repeatedly returned to one message: no single agency can solve this alone. Progress depends on consistent communication, shared responsibility, and the willingness to act when something doesn’t look right.
If you see something, say something
Reporting concerns can save lives. Leaders encouraged travelers, airport staff, and residents to trust their instincts and speak up—whether to law enforcement or through local and national reporting resources. Traffickers rely on inaction. Atlanta’s response is vigilance.
Preparing to host the world
As Atlanta prepares to welcome global visitors for the FIFA World Cup 2026, city leaders reinforced that safety and human dignity are foundational. The Mayor’s Office of Violence Reduction has partnered with It’s a Penalty, a global initiative that uses sport to help prevent abuse, exploitation, and human trafficking.
The goal is clear: ensure that every visitor and resident knows how to report concerns and access help, before and during major international events.
A year-round commitment
While January brings heightened awareness, Atlanta’s work continues every day—through training, enforcement, survivor support, and public education. The city’s message is consistent and unwavering: protecting people comes first.
When the world passes through Atlanta, it will be met by a city united in its commitment to safety, accountability, and human dignity.
Get help or report concerns:
National Human Trafficking Hotline — 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733 (BEFREE)
