LAS VEGAS
Las Vegas human trafficking challenge ahead of Super Bowl and Formula 1
A non-governmental organisation aims to strengthen measures to prevent human trafficking at the upcoming high profile events.
Las Vegas is ready to host two major sporting events. In November, the Las Vegas Formula 1 Grand Prix will take place, followed by the NFL Super Bowl 100 days later.
Las Vegas Super Bowl threat
However, not everything is rosy in Sin City. Thousands of people from around the world will attend these two significant events, but there will also be those who seek to exploit human trafficking. In response, local nonprofit organizations will strengthen measures to prevent these crimes.
“We just want to be as prepared as possible if there is an influx,” shared Joanna Granados with Signs of Hope, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals affected by violence and sexual exploitation.
Cassie Matheus, the director of the Resources and Integration for Survivor Empowerment program at the organization, stated that their primary role as a NGO will not change what Signs of HOPE provides, but it will provide the organization with more personnel and support for their services during the events.
An annual trafficking struggle
Unfortunately, this is not a new concern and historically the Super Bowl has been associated with an increase in the trafficking of people, and it’s an ongoing battle for local governments to combat these crimes. The climax to the NFL season is a major sporting event that brings together thousands of people in the host city. As with any large-scale event where many people from different parts of the world gather it carries this risk.
As part of an undercover operation against human trafficking and prostitution in the lead-up to Super Bowl LV, which was held in the city of Tampa Bay in 2021, US authorities arrested 71 individuals.