This January, as we observe National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, my administration remains dedicated to ending human trafficking and restoring justice. We aim to protect our most vulnerable citizens, ensuring that every trafficker faces serious consequences.
Under the last administration, thousands of unaccompanied children went missing after crossing our borders. Many fell into the hands of smugglers and traffickers. This wasn’t just a policy failure; it was a humanitarian disaster that allowed modern slavery to thrive. Since taking office, I’ve worked vigorously to dismantle trafficking networks and rescue innocent children who are at risk.
On my first day, I declared a national emergency at the southern border. This step aimed to halt illegal immigration and disrupt human trafficking routes that harm families. We designated key criminal cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and initiated the largest mass deportation effort in U.S. history.
Last summer, I signed a significant law known as the One Big Beautiful Bill. This legislation significantly expands resources for the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). It also allocates funding for Border Patrol and new border wall construction. Furthermore, we established a fund for survivors of sex trafficking to access compensation, cracking down on over 100 online scam operations that exploit vulnerable people. We also boosted funds for the National Human Trafficking Hotline and supported the TAKE IT DOWN Act and Trafficking Survivors Relief Act—all aimed at modernizing efforts against trafficking and aiding survivors in rebuilding their lives.
Thanks to these initiatives, our border security has improved, and illegal crossings have declined. For the seventh consecutive month, Border Patrol has reported no illegal entries. ICE is now collaborating with local law enforcement through the Unaccompanied Children Safety Verification Initiative, ensuring the safety of minors abandoned in the past.
As we move through this month, we reaffirm our commitment to a future where American families live without the fear of criminal activity from those unlawfully in our nation. We remain focused on dismantling trafficking rings, securing our borders, and deporting dangerous criminals to protect our communities.
Recently, a report from the Global Slavery Index estimated that over 40 million people are victims of modern slavery around the world today. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for continued action. Experts suggest that strong policies and community awareness are vital in combating this issue. Social media activism is also rising, with campaigns encouraging more people to understand and take a stand against human trafficking.
By working together, building awareness, and providing support for survivors, we can strive to eradicate these horrible crimes and ensure a safer future for everyone.
