From day one, we have been committed to the safety of our riders and drivers, and we strive to have a positive impact on every community we serve. With January being National Slavery & Human Trafficking Prevention Month, we are working to help raise awareness and taking action to prevent human trafficking.
Through partnerships with organizations like International Human Trafficking Institute and Businesses Ending Slavery and Trafficking (BEST), we are educating drivers and employees on how to spot potential trafficking and how to take action. This includes printed materials, online resources, and in-person sessions, as well as employee trainings and a series of learning sessions for drivers.
“Human trafficking occurs hidden in plain view. We are honored to partner with Lyft, so their drivers will recognize the signs of human trafficking and know how to confidentially report it,” said Deborah J. Richardson, Executive Director of International Human Trafficking Institute.
“In 2018, BEST assisted Lyft to create cards with Indicators of Human Trafficking for Lyft drivers; survivors of human trafficking advised us in developing the indicators,” said Dr. Mar Brettmann, Executive Director of BEST. “Lyft also used our online training, BEST Basics, to educate Seattle-area employees to identify potential trafficking victims in the region. Finally, we were thrilled when Lyft’s Seattle office joined BEST’s Safe Jobs Collaborative, which helps survivors of human trafficking get placed in employment situations and rebuild their lives.”
Retired Sheriff of Oklahoma County and Chair of the National Sheriffs’ Association’s Traffic Safety Committee, John Whetsel, also expressed support for Lyft’s actions. “I’ve worked in law enforcement for over 50 years and trafficking incidents are something that I’m keenly aware of,” said Whetsel. “More needs to be done to stop such egregious acts. I am proud of Lyft’s commitment to this issue to identify and reduce victimization.”
To report suspected human trafficking, please contact 911. You can also contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or TEXT 233733.
Helpful resources
DHS Blue Campaign
Polaris
National Human Trafficking Hotline
National Sheriffs’ Association