Olympia — State Representative Janice Zahn, newly appointed to represent Washington’s 41st Legislative District, is taking a strong stand against human trafficking by introducing a resolution to designate January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Washington state. The resolution highlights the urgent need to combat human trafficking and supports ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable individuals, raise public awareness, and ensure justice for survivors.
“Human trafficking is a horrific crime that strips people of their dignity and freedom. It is happening right here in Washington, affecting the most vulnerable in our communities, and we must take action,” said Rep. Zahn. “As someone deeply committed to human rights and social justice, I am proud to introduce this resolution and help shine a light on an issue that is too often hidden in the shadows.”
Human trafficking is one of the fastest-growing criminal enterprises in the world, involving the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit individuals for labor or commercial sex. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security estimates that tens of millions of people worldwide are trapped in modern-day slavery, including cases occurring in Washington state. The Puget Sound region—home to major transportation hubs and a growing economy—has been identified as a hotspot for trafficking activity, with victims often targeted through online exploitation, coercion, and deception.
The resolution underscores that:
- Human trafficking is a public health and human rights crisis that inflicts deep trauma on individuals, families, and communities.
- Washington State has been a national leader in fighting trafficking, becoming the first state to criminalize it in 2003 and continuing to pass legislation that strengthens protections for survivors and holds traffickers accountable.
- Certain populations are at higher risk, including those experiencing poverty, homelessness, substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and individuals from marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities.
- Public education and survivor-centered policies are critical to prevention, protection, and justice.
For Rep. Zahn, this issue is personal. Before joining the Legislature, she worked on policies to protect vulnerable communities, support survivors, and increase public awareness of human trafficking. As a Bellevue City Councilmember, she helped advance initiatives that addressed safety, housing security, and social services—issues deeply intertwined with the fight against human trafficking.
The resolution aligns with National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, recognized by the President of the United States each January since 2010. It reaffirms Washington’s commitment to fighting human trafficking through education, policy, and partnerships with law enforcement, service providers, and advocacy organizations.
Rep. Zahn encourages Washingtonians to get involved by learning the signs of human trafficking, supporting survivor-led organizations, and advocating for stronger protections against exploitation.
“This is not just a global issue—it’s a local one,” said Rep. Zahn. Traffickers prey on vulnerability, and we have a responsibility to break the cycle of exploitation. By recognizing Human Trafficking Awareness Month, we recommit to educating our communities, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable.”
About Rep. Janice Zahn
Rep. Janice Zahn represents Washington’s 41st Legislative District. With a background in engineering and public administration, she is a champion for equity, human rights, and safe communities. Rep. Zahn has lived in Bellevue for over 30 years and is committed to building a future where all Washingtonians can live free from exploitation and harm.