SACRAMENTO, CA - The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT), in partnership with local law enforcement and community organizations, reaffirmed its commitment to combating human trafficking through public awareness, education and outreach.

At a Jan. 15 press conference held at the 16th Street light rail station, leaders unveiled SacRT’s latest campaign featuring a new wall mural at the station, multilingual bus shelter ads and onboard messaging designed to reach vulnerable populations and connect them with critical resources.

“Human trafficking is a hidden crime that devastates lives,” said SacRT General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Henry Li. “As a transit agency, we have a unique opportunity to reach people who may be at risk or in need of help. This campaign ensures that vital information is visible and accessible in multiple languages across our system.”

“I want to emphasize that SacRT is not just about transportation; it’s about people,” said SacRT Board Chair and Sacramento City Councilmember Rick Jennings. “Our riders are our neighbors, friends and family, and their safety is our top priority.”

“Human trafficking is modern-day slavery, exploiting the most vulnerable among us, especially women and girls of color who are disproportionately impacted,” said SacRT Incoming Board Chair and Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen. “This is not just a global issue; it’s local and raising awareness helps us recognize the signs and protect victims.”

“Stopping human trafficking requires a united front. Our deputies work tirelessly to identify and disrupt trafficking operations, but we can’t do it alone,” said Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper. “Public awareness is key, and SacRT’s efforts help us reach those who need help the most.”

“Human trafficking is not just a crime; it’s a violation of human dignity. Our office is committed to prosecuting traffickers and supporting survivors through a trauma-informed approach,” said Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho. “Campaigns like this help prevent exploitation before it happens.”

“Survivors need to know they are not alone. When they are ready, WEAVE provides 24/7 crisis intervention, shelter and counseling, but awareness is the first step,” said WEAVE Chief Executive Officer Beth Hassett. “This campaign helps connect victims to life-saving resources.”

“Education and empowerment are powerful tools in the fight against trafficking. By working together, we can protect vulnerable individuals and create safer communities for women and girls,” said President of Soroptimist International of Elk Grove Staci Bettis.

The campaign includes bus shelter ads in English, Chinese, Dari, Farsi, Pashto, Hmong, Spanish and Vietnamese, as well as messaging inside all SacRT buses and light rail vehicles, and key transit centers and stations.

If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, or if you suspect trafficking activity, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888; Text: “BEFREE” (233733); Visit humantraffickinghotline.org. In an emergency, always call 9-1-1.

For more information about SacRT’s campaign, visit sacrt.com/HumanTrafficking.