Thanksgiving is a time when many of us gather with family and friends to share food, memories, and meaningful conversations. It’s also an opportunity to talk about important issues, including those that can be challenging to discuss—like sex trafficking. Engaging loved ones in a conversation about sex trafficking not only raises awareness but also helps inspire change. Here are some tips to help you start a compassionate and impactful conversation with your family and friends this Thanksgiving.
1. Know Some Basics
Before initiating a conversation, it helps to understand some key facts about sex trafficking. Sex trafficking involves the exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion for commercial sex acts. It affects people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds, though certain groups—such as youth, people of color, and LGBTQIA+ individuals—are more vulnerable. And it doesn’t only happen overseas, it happens right here in the US every day.
That said, you don’t need to know all the answers to start a conversation. Simply raising awareness that sex trafficking happens in the U.S. can be impactful, as it might prompt others to seek out more information and become engaged in the issue.
2. Start Gently and Respectfully
The holidays can be emotional, so approach the topic with sensitivity. A gentle segue might be, “I recently learned some things about sex trafficking that really opened my eyes, and I wanted to share them with you.” Starting this way keeps the tone open and invites your family and friends to participate. If there are young children present, consider age appropriate topics like healthy relationships, self-esteem, and consent. These conversations can be foundational in preventing exploitation.
3. Share Stories and Personal Connections
Stories can be powerful tools for building empathy and understanding. You might share a story you’ve read or learned about from a reputable source, or talk about how the issue has personally impacted your perspective. If you support an organization that fights trafficking, like REST, you could mention how their work has inspired you. Real-life stories resonate and can make the issue feel closer to home.
4. Use Facts to Support the Reality of the Issue
Statistics and facts can reinforce the seriousness of sex trafficking and dispel common myths. For instance, you might share that thousands of people experience sexual exploitation every night in the U.S., including minors. Facts like these help clarify that trafficking isn’t an isolated issue but a systemic problem that affects many people. Just be mindful to avoid overwhelming your family and friends with too many details at once
5. Explain the Local Impact
Many people don’t realize that sex trafficking happens not just globally but also in their local communities. Share any information you have about sex trafficking in your area, if relevant, to make the issue feel more immediate. Highlighting that it occurs “close to home” can encourage others to care more deeply and consider ways they might help.
6. Focus on Prevention and Solutions
Talking about sex trafficking can feel heavy, so balance the conversation by focusing on solutions and ways people can help. Discuss the work of organizations like REST, which provide survivor-centered services including, an emergency shelter, housing assistance and mental health care. Explain that simple actions—like learning the signs of trafficking, supporting local organizations, or advocating for policy changes—can make a big difference.
7. Encourage Questions and Open Dialogue
Encourage your family and friends to ask questions or share their own thoughts. An open dialogue can make the conversation more engaging and less like a lecture. Be prepared for questions that might challenge your perspective, and remember that honest curiosity is an opportunity to build understanding and lead to action.
8. Offer Resources for Further Learning
If your family or friends are interested in learning more, provide resources they can explore on their own. Suggest documentaries, books, or trusted organizations that provide reliable information on the subject. REST’s website, for instance, has resources that can help deepen their understanding.
9. End on a Positive Note
Wrap up the conversation by emphasizing that while trafficking is a difficult issue, awareness and small actions can lead to meaningful change. Express gratitude for their openness to discussing this important topic and acknowledge that talking about it is a powerful first step in supporting solutions. End by collaborating on ideas for next steps, “What do you think we can do as a family/friends to support causes like this?”
By starting this conversation during a time of togetherness, you can educate your loved ones, inspire compassion, and spark action. Together, we can work toward a future where everyone lives in freedom and safety.
This Thanksgiving, let’s be grateful—and let’s make a difference.