In Our Backyard: Human Trafficking in America and What We Can Do to Stop It

Belles, Nita. In Our Backyard: Human Trafficking in America and What We Can Do to Stop It. 2015. 240p. ISBN 9780801018572. Available as an eBook on Overdrive.

When we hear the words human trafficking, we think of people in Africa, the Middle East or Asia being sold into slavery. But human trafficking is so much more pervasive than that. It is present everywhere, even in the United States, even in New Hampshire, maybe even in our small rural communities. Though we often think of human trafficking as boys, girls and women being enslaved for sexual purposes, we forget that it includes so much more, from individuals working in restaurants and homes to maids working in hotels as well as the more traditionally understood roles of slavery.

In this book, Nina Belles shares true human trafficking stories that took place in the United States, and explains that this is a crime that can strike anyone at any time, regardless of race, gender, nationality socioeconomic or educational status. It does not only affect those we consider the “others” such as runaways or individuals who feel powerless and disenfranchised from their families and their communities. Anyone can become a victim, and Belles provides several warning signs that explain how to spot human trafficking and how to avoid it. She also provides advice on how to fight back against human trafficking and she presents organizations that help fight this crime against people.

A real eye opener, this book raises awareness and increases social consciousness and should be read by all.