Atlanta launches anti-human trafficking campaign ahead of World Cup
By Grace King
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ATLANTA, Georgia (WXIA) — Atlanta is launching a new anti-human trafficking campaign ahead of the FIFA World Cup matches coming to the city next month.
The effort is part of the global “It’s a Penalty” campaign, which uses major sporting events to raise awareness about human trafficking and exploitation. Organizers said the campaign will focus on helping people recognize warning signs, report concerns, and connect victims with support services.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said large events can increase vulnerabilities for trafficking victims.
“Trafficking is a crime that hides in plain sight,” Dickens said. “We are asking people to say something if they see something.”
The Atlanta Alliance Against Trafficking Task Force will coordinate prevention efforts before the World Cup. Officials said the task force includes law enforcement agencies, nonprofits, faith leaders, businesses, and survivor support groups.
Sarah D. Carvalho, founder and CEO of It’s a Penalty, said the organization has launched campaigns tied to major sporting events in 14 countries over the past 12 years.
Carvalho said campaign materials will appear in airports, hotels, ride-share vehicles, and on flights with airlines including American Airlines, British Airways, and Emirates during June and July.
Georgia First Lady Marty Kemp said the state has made combating human trafficking a priority for years, especially after Atlanta hosted the Super Bowl in 2019.
“We will also be vigilant in our fight to protect our most vulnerable,” Kemp said. “If you see something this summer, say something. Alert law enforcement, because you never know if you might save a life.”
Kemp said Georgia has passed 11 laws aimed at helping survivors and strengthening prosecutions against traffickers and buyers. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has investigated 644 human trafficking cases, leading to 196 arrests and the recovery of 216 possible victims, she said.
Atlanta Police Department Deputy Chief Darin Schierbaum said officers are receiving additional training ahead of the World Cup.
Several hospitality and travel companies also announced expanded anti-trafficking training programs for employees and partners.
Officials encouraged residents and visitors to remain alert during the World Cup and report suspicious activity to law enforcement or trafficking hotlines.
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