Albany County Recognizes Human Trafficking Awareness Day

In recognition of Human Trafficking Awareness Day, Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy today announced the launch of a new reusable bag aimed at raising awareness about human trafficking. Human trafficking is a crime that often hides in plain sight, affecting people of all ages, backgrounds, and communities, including locally. Awareness remains one of the most effective tools in preventing exploitation and supporting survivors, and this initiative is designed to bring that awareness into everyday spaces where people live, shop, and gather.

The bags will be distributed at community events, county facilities, and through partner organizations while supplies last. This initiative builds on ongoing efforts with law enforcement, service providers, and advocacy organizations to combat human trafficking, support survivors, and hold offenders accountable.

"Human trafficking thrives when people don't know what to look for or where to turn," said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. "Raising awareness empowers residents to recognize the signs, speak up, and help ensure that those at risk know support is available. An informed community is one of our strongest defenses against exploitation."

Human trafficking is not something that only happens in distant places or involves people being smuggled across borders. Victims of trafficking are often our friends, neighbors, coworkers, or classmates. Many are exploited by people they know and trust, such as partners, employers, family members, or acquaintances within our own community. In 2024, the National Human Trafficking Hotline received 1,191 total calls/texts, with 1,437 victims involved in trafficking cases in New York.

The Albany County Crime Victim and Sexual Violence Center (CVSVC) continues to serve as a valuable resource for the community with several upcoming events aimed at raising awareness and providing education. Starting January 20th, 2026, we will be holding "Not a Number" prevention groups at the Delaware branch library every Tuesday from 4pm to 5pm. This is an interactive, youth-centered program that helps young people recognize and protect themselves from exploitative situations. The goal is to build confidence and work on boundaries and healthy connections. It is open to all youth in the community ages 12+.

On Saturday, January 24th, 2026, we will also be hosting a film screening of Trafficked in America at the Washington branch library at 12pm. This is a 50-minute film that follows the story of a group of teenagers from Central America who were smuggled into the U.S. by traffickers who promised them a better life but instead were forced to work on an egg farm. The film will be followed by a discussion to talk more about what human trafficking looks like today and the resources that are available. For more information on these events residents can contact our Human Trafficking Services Coordinator Maria Grijalva at 518-447-7100.

"On Human Trafficking Awareness Day, we stand with survivors and reaffirm our commitment to ending human trafficking in all its forms. As an agency that serves victims of crime, including human trafficking, we see firsthand how exploitation can take many forms, including forced labor and sexual exploitation. Strong connections and informed communities are critical to prevention and intervention. We encourage everyone in Albany County to learn the signs, speak up, and support survivors. Together, through awareness, connection, and compassion, we can build stronger futures and a safer community for all," said Albany County Crime Victim and Sexual Violence Center Director Amanda Wingle.

Albany County Crime Victim & Sexual Violence Center offers services for victims of crimes, including human trafficking, in Albany County. They provide a 24-hour sexual assault crisis hotline (518-447-7716), therapy, case management, and court advocacy. They can be reached at our main number, 518-447-7100, Monday-Friday, 8:30-4:30pm.

###

Pictured left to right- CE McCoy, CVSVC Director Wingle and Deputy County Executive Mike McLaughlin with the awareness bag.