The Polaris Post

Dear John, 

Wishing you warm regards and cool refreshment as we start off the summer season! As we look ahead to Independence Day next week, we’re more committed than ever to supporting survivors on their journeys to freedom — and we’re grateful that you’re standing alongside us.

Please read on to learn more about new resources for the anti-trafficking movement and more ways you can support survivor-centered services and policies. We also hope you’ll forward The Polaris Post to others who share your values. 

Together, we’ll create a world where everyone is free to choose how and where they live and work.

The U.S. Department of State just released this year’s Trafficking in Persons Report, an annual assessment of emerging trends and anti-trafficking efforts across 188 countries and territories.

Polaris regularly contributes information to the U.S. country report and is often highlighted for best practices in the field.

In this year’s “Exploring the Role and Impact of Digital Technology on Human Trafficking” section, keep an eye out for a mention of our mobile phone-based worker engagement platform, Nonechka! 

But funding has not kept pace with this growth — in fact, Congress provides only 35% of what it takes to run the Hotline.

You can help us make the case for additional resources to support victims, survivors, and those close to them. Call or write your Members of Congress today.

As we close out Pride Month, it’s important to highlight that LGBTQ+ people deserve our support year-round.

Too many LGBTQ+ youth are vulnerable to traffickers who exploit their need for stability and belonging. And LGBTQ+ survivors often face barriers to services and support after they exit, putting them at risk for re-trafficking.

Check out our website to learn from survivors and share helpful content, including a guest blog, survivor videos, and social media posts.

But did you know that the Thirteenth Amendment, ratified in 1865, did not entirely abolish slavery? 

Allowing involuntary servitude as a punishment for crimes, this exception has enabled slavery to live on in forced prison labor. This form of trafficking especially impacts Black, African-American, and other communities of color. Visit our website to read more and take action.

Do you have an IRA or own appreciated stock?

If so, we have an online platform that makes it easy to use these resources to give to Polaris. These tax-smart gifts come with advantages for you while making an immediate impact for the survivors we serve.

This summer, we hope you’ll take a few minutes to explore ways to save and give at the same time. We’re so grateful for your support!