The Lincoln Airport is inviting the public to learn more about preventing human trafficking during its third annual Human Trafficking Awareness Day on Friday, July 31. The free event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. outside the airport terminal near the parking garage.
Organizers encourage attendees to register in advance to help estimate attendance, but walk-ins are welcome. Parking is also free. Airport Marketing Director Rachel Barth says the event is part of the airport’s participation in the Blue Lightning Initiative, a U.S. Department of Homeland Security program that trains airport employees to recognize and report signs of human trafficking.
“We know that airlines and TSA have their own training, but this is one small part of what we can do,” Barth says. “We want to help raise awareness and make sure our staff understands what human trafficking can look like.”
The event will feature speakers from law enforcement, victim advocacy organizations and community groups that work with trafficking survivors. Barth says they also hope to dispel the misconception that human trafficking doesn’t occur in Nebraska.
“It absolutely does,” Barth says. “We have a major transportation corridor that runs through our state, and large events can unfortunately attract traffickers. Human trafficking isn’t limited to women and children. Labor trafficking, where people are forced to work against their will without pay, is also a growing problem.”
Officials stress that airports, airlines, TSA officers and law enforcement all receive specialized training, but they say public awareness is also critical. Food trucks will be on site during the event.
Images: Lincoln Airport
(Images: Lincoln Airport)