Buckeye Reporter

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has reflected on the efforts made in 2024 to combat human trafficking across the state. On National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, Yost emphasized the importance of public awareness in addressing this issue. "Awareness is critical in educating the public that human trafficking happens anywhere and everywhere," he stated. He highlighted the focus on reducing demand, noting, "We’ve been focusing on demand reduction because without a buyer there is no human trafficking."

The observance of National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, also known as Wear Blue Day, encourages advocates to show support by wearing blue and sharing photos online with #WearBlueDay.

Yost's Human Trafficking Initiative (HTI) used this day to review past progress and plan future actions. A significant achievement was launching Ohio’s first statewide hotline for reporting suspected human trafficking: 844-END-OHHT (844-363-6448). Announced during the fifth annual Human Trafficking Summit on August 7, this hotline directs tips to law enforcement or relevant experts.

In 2024, HTI conducted over 45 training sessions across Ohio and developed specialized materials for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These materials focus on healthy relationships and personal safety. The team also contributed to educational guides aimed at raising community awareness among adults and youths.

Additionally, HTI successfully advocated for Senate Bill 214, which offers enhanced opportunities for survivors of human trafficking with criminal records to rebuild their lives. Yost remarked, "The fight is far from over. But we’re making meaningful strides every day."