The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) will observe Thursday as 2026 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. The department’s central office headquarters will be illuminated in blue lights on Wednesday and Thursday, and employees will be encouraged to wear blue in recognition.
Human Trafficking Awareness
Human trafficking occurs everywhere, including Arkansas. It involves the use of force, fraud or coercion to exploit individuals for labor or commercial sex. Victims can be found in plain sight, in workplaces, at rest stops and at other public places.
In February, ARDOT and the Arkansas Highway Police signed a pledge to raise awareness and be vigilant in identifying and reporting this crime. ARDOT Director Jared Wiley said, ‘The men and women of the Arkansas Department of Transportation have been trained to recognize the signs of human trafficking and know who to call when they observe behavior that fits the patterns.’
Recognizing the signs of this crime and knowing how to report suspicious behavior can save lives. Warning signs of human trafficking may include someone who isn’t allowed to speak for themselves, someone who appears fearful, controlled or watched, or someone without access to their identification, money or phone.
If you suspect human trafficking, report it to the Arkansas Human Trafficking Hotline at 501-618-8001 or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
