Guelph police and local groups launch a public video campaign to expose rising human trafficking in the region and educate Canadians on how to recognize the signs.
Police and Community Unite Against Trafficking
A surge in human trafficking across Ontario has prompted a public awareness campaign in Guelph. Released last week, the video is a joint effort by Guelph Police Service, Victim Services Wellington, Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis, and Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington. The initiative addresses rising concerns that the city’s location may make it a hotspot for trafficking activity.
Survivor Story Anchors Awareness Message
The campaign features powerful testimonials, including that of Kaitlin Bick, a trafficking survivor who was exploited at age 24 by someone she trusted. “If I knew what human trafficking really looked like, maybe it wouldn’t have happened to me,” said Bick. Her message emphasizes that trafficking doesn’t only happen in major cities or to specific groups—it can affect Canadians from all walks of life, including men, boys, and the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Guelph’s Location Makes It Vulnerable
Det. Sgt. James Graham from Guelph Police’s Human Trafficking Unit warns that the city’s proximity to Highway 401 and larger urban centres like Toronto and Hamilton increases its vulnerability. “Guelph can serve as a hub for this heinous crime,” said Graham in a police statement. Officers say they’ve stepped up efforts to detect and investigate these cases, yet trafficking remains vastly underreported.
Dispelling Myths and Identifying Risk
One of the campaign’s core goals is to dismantle common misconceptions. Elizabeth Kent, Executive Director of Victim Services Wellington, stresses that many victims are trafficked by someone they know—often a partner or friend. Emotional manipulation, not physical restraint, is frequently the main tool of control. “We need to change the narrative that victims can simply leave,” she said.
The video outlines clear warning signs: sudden disconnection from friends, financial dependence, someone else speaking on the victim’s behalf, and visible fear or secrecy.
Broader Action in Ontario Airports
Beyond Guelph, anti-trafficking efforts are expanding across the province. The Region of Waterloo International Airport recently partnered with the #NotInMyCity movement, founded by Canadian country artist Paul Brandt. The campaign aims to raise awareness in air travel corridors, incorporating staff training, signage, and public resources to help identify trafficking in transit.
Community Encouraged to Speak Up
Police emphasize that human trafficking is not just a global or urban issue—it’s happening in Canadian communities now. Guelph police spokesperson Scott Tracey says residents often assume these crimes are distant. “We see it happening here more than people realize,” he said.
Authorities encourage anyone who suspects trafficking to contact local police or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers. The hope is that awareness—sparked by survivor voices and public education—will empower Canadians to recognize exploitation and intervene safely.
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