#United States #Minneapolis #Human Trafficking #OUR RESCUE

Our Rescue's Dedication to Fighting Human Trafficking

On January 16, 2025, Our Rescue, a prominent global NGO focused on eradicating sex trafficking and supporting victims of child exploitation, celebrated a significant milestone in collaboration with local non-profit groups and city leaders in the Twin Cities. This event marked the adoption of Honorary Resolution 2025R-109, which not only declares January 2025 as Human Trafficking and Exploitation Awareness Month but also solidifies the Minneapolis city government’s commitment to combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable communities.

During the Minneapolis City Council meeting, Council Member Linea Palmisano and Andrea Jenkins played pivotal roles in co-authoring the resolution that was endorsed by Mayor Jacob Frey. Their leadership underscores the city’s determination to address the pressing issue of human trafficking within its borders. Present at the meeting was Mitch Abrahamsen, Chief Mission Support Officer for Our Rescue, who expressed gratitude for the council members' efforts and emphasized the growing collaboration to combat this pervasive issue.

The statistics on human trafficking in Minnesota are alarming. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, the state reported an especially high number of sex trafficking cases, with minors accounting for nearly 23% of the victims. Minnesota ranks third nationally in reported cases of child sexual exploitation. Moreover, reports to the Minnesota Human Trafficking Investigators Task Force have surged, showing a 38% increase since 2022. These figures highlight the urgent need for action.

Abrahamsen commented, "I would like to thank City of Minneapolis Council Member Linea Palmisano and Council Member Jenkins for their leadership as co-authors of this important resolution and for their partnership with Our Rescue in the fight to end human trafficking and child exploitation. As we move our headquarters to Minneapolis and expand our work, we are excited to lead the fight alongside the City and other partners to amplify our collective impact."

The resolution articulates the city’s commitment to making Minneapolis a safe space for all its residents. This includes a strong pledge to protect marginalized populations such as LGBTQIA+ individuals and immigrants, ensuring their rights and safety against exploitation and trafficking. The city aims to develop policies and programs that specifically respond to the unique needs of these communities, thereby reinforcing a welcoming environment for everyone.

Many community leaders joined Abrahamsen in supporting the resolution, including representatives from OutFront MN, The Link, and the Minnesota Department of Health. Each of these organizations plays a critical role in providing supportive services or advocacy for at-risk populations.

Our Rescue stands out as a non-profit organization founded in 2013, with a mission to fight sex trafficking and empower survivors. The organization works on multiple fronts: preventing trafficking through education, aiding law enforcement in recovery operations, and offering comprehensive, trauma-informed care to survivors. Their initiatives are not limited to Minnesota; they operate across the United States and 27 other countries.

As the issue of human trafficking continues to grow both in awareness and incidence, the efforts in Minneapolis represent a beacon of hope. Collaborative actions between local government and NGOs like Our Rescue are essential for effecting meaningful change. By acknowledging the problem on a city-wide level and pledging resources to combat it, Minneapolis sets a proactive example for other cities grappling with similar issues.

The adoption of Honorary Resolution 2025R-109 is not just a symbolic gesture; it is a vital step toward a broader movement to provide safety, support, and justice for victims of trafficking. As the city commits to ongoing efforts, it invites other organizations, community leaders, and individuals to join the cause, aiming to eradicate human trafficking in all its forms and safeguard the dignity and safety of every individual in the community.

In the fight against human trafficking, awareness and collaboration are key. The steps taken by the City Council and organizations like Our Rescue highlight the crucial efforts being made to address an issue that affects countless lives. Together, they embody the resolve needed to combat this crisis head-on, encouraging others to take a stand and support the movement for justice and healing.