A Shared Responsibility to Prevent Human Trafficking

Human trafficking remains one of the most complex and hidden forms of abuse facing vulnerable children in Louisiana. January’s designation as Human Trafficking Awareness Month calls us to examine not only the problem itself, but our collective responsibility to prevent it.

Human trafficking does not always look the way it is portrayed in headlines or movies. In Louisiana, it can take the form of exploitation that unfolds quietly through manipulation, coercion, and abuse of vulnerability. Children involved in the child welfare system are particularly at risk. Instability, prior trauma, unmet needs, and the absence of consistent adult protection can create opportunities for traffickers to exploit trust and desperation.

This reality reinforces why CASA volunteers are so critical. A consistent, trained, court-appointed advocate can serve as a powerful protective factor for a child. CASA volunteers help ensure warning signs are not overlooked, concerns are elevated appropriately, and a child’s voice is present in courtrooms and systems where life-altering decisions are made. Advocacy is not only about responding after harm occurs; it is also about prevention, awareness, and sustained vigilance.

At Louisiana CASA, we continue working alongside our local programs, courts, and partners to strengthen training, promote trauma-informed practices, and support volunteers and staff who encounter these complex issues in their work. Addressing human trafficking requires coordination across systems and a shared commitment to protecting children before, during, and after exploitation occurs.

Louisiana CASA staff on Wear Blue Day in support of Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

Throughout January, Human Trafficking Prevention Month is being recognized across Louisiana through education, advocacy, and community engagement. The Governor’s Office has released a statewide toolkit encouraging agencies and organizations to participate by sharing awareness messaging, wearing blue in solidarity, and amplifying victim outreach efforts. Today, Louisiana CASA and state agencies are observing Wear Blue Day in honor of Human Trafficking Prevention Month. The Louisiana State Capitol and the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion are also expected to light up in blue this evening.

This work is also personal and ongoing at the statewide level. I am honored to have been appointed by Governor Jeff Landry to serve on the Human Trafficking Prevention Commission Advisory Board, where I have the opportunity to contribute to prevention and policy efforts alongside partners from across Louisiana. In addition, Louisiana CASA has invested in building internal capacity, with certified Familial Trafficking trainers on staff who provide training, awareness, and technical assistance to our local programs. These efforts strengthen our ability to recognize risk factors, respond appropriately, and support advocates working with children who may be impacted by trafficking or exploitation.

As we move into this new year, I encourage each of us to approach January with both intention and awareness. Learning more, asking thoughtful questions, and remaining attentive to the experiences of vulnerable children are meaningful steps we can all take. Awareness alone does not solve the problem, but it is an essential place to begin.

Thank you for your continued dedication to children across Louisiana and for the important role you play in safeguarding their futures.

Amanda Moody

Louisiana CASA Association Executive Director

Louisiana CASA State Director

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