Campaign brings multilingual outreach and new station mural to raise awareness, connect victims with resources
Sacramento Regional Transit District is reaffirming its commitment to combating human trafficking through a new public awareness and education campaign launched during Human Trafficking Awareness Month, uniting local law enforcement and community organizations to reach vulnerable populations across the region.
At a Thursday press conference held at the 16th Street light rail station, SacRT leaders and partners unveiled a coordinated effort that includes a new wall mural at the station, multilingual bus shelter advertisements, and onboard messaging throughout buses and light rail vehicles. The campaign is designed to increase visibility, educate riders, and connect individuals at risk with critical support services.
“Human trafficking is a hidden crime that devastates lives,” said Henry Li, SacRT general manager and CEO. “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.”
Rick Jennings, SacRT board chair and a Sacramento city councilmember, said the initiative reflects the agency’s broader responsibility to the community. “I want to emphasize that SacRT is not just about transportation — it’s about people,” Jennings said. “Our riders are our neighbors, friends, and family, and their safety is our top priority.”
Incoming SacRT board chair and Elk Grove mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen underscored the local impact of the issue. “Human trafficking is modern-day slavery, exploiting the most vulnerable among us — especially women and girls of color who are disproportionately impacted,” Singh-Allen said. “This is not just a global issue — it’s local, and raising awareness helps us recognize the signs and protect victims.”
Law enforcement leaders stressed the importance of public engagement and collaboration. “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 Jim Cooper, Sacramento County sheriff. “Public awareness is key, and SacRT’s efforts help us reach those who need help the most.”
Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho said proactive education can prevent exploitation. “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,” Ho said. “Campaigns like this help prevent exploitation before it happens.”
Community organizations that provide direct services to survivors also played a key role in the campaign’s launch. “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 Beth Hassett, CEO of WEAVE. “This campaign helps connect victims to life-saving resources.”
Soroptimist International of Elk Grove President Staci Bettis said education and collaboration remain essential. “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,” Bettis said.
According to SacRT, the campaign includes bus shelter advertisements in English, Chinese, Dari, Farsi, Pashto, Hmong, Spanish and Vietnamese, along with messaging inside all SacRT buses and light rail vehicles and at major transit centers and stations throughout the system.
Residents who believe they or someone they know may be a victim of human trafficking, or who suspect trafficking activity, are encouraged to seek help. The National Human Trafficking Hotline is available by calling 1-888-373-7888 or by texting “BEFREE” (233733). In emergencies, community members should always call 9-1-1. Additional information about SacRT’s awareness campaign is available at sacrt.com/HumanTrafficking.
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