GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) – Defenders of Freedom is an organization committed to raising awareness and slowing the crime of human trafficking in South Mississippi.

The Department of Justice has declared I-10 a major corridor for human trafficking in the United States.

“We are the perfect storm,” says Susie Harvill, CEO and founder of Advocates for Freedom. “We have young soldiers here. We have waterways where you can get people in and out without being seen, and we have the I-10 corridor.”

Human trafficking is the second-ranking crime worldwide, with at least 42 million victims.

Kerri Helsel of Defenders of Freedom says education is important and there are many signs to look out for when it comes to human trafficking.

“There’s an old man and a very young daughter, a child who doesn’t know where they are or might change her name,” Helsel said.

on November 16 Defenders of Freedom It organizes a fundraising and awareness event called. ‘The Wild West Takes Wings’ 6 p.m. at Southern Oaks in Gulfport

This is a Cowboy themed event with line dancing and a silent auction.

“We need everyone to come together. “Have a fun time, but help support,” Harvill said.

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