What is Labor Trafficking

Labor trafficking occurs when a person is forced, deceived, or coerced to work under harsh and exploitative conditions. Victims are often made to perform labor or services against their will, typically through threats, manipulation, debt, or abuse. This can happen in many industries, including:

• Agriculture and farming
• Construction and landscaping
• Domestic work and caregiving
• Day labor or temporary work
• Manufacturing and factory work
• Hospitality and service industries

Labor trafficking violates human rights and often involves dangerous conditions, stolen wages, and restrictions on movement or communication.

Unsure if you've been a victim of Labor Trafficking?

Have any of these happened to you?

• Has your freedom to leave or resign been taken away through threats or manipulation?
• Have you been forced to work excessively long hours without proper breaks or rest?
• Are you being paid far less than you were promised, or not at all?
• Do you live in overcrowded or unsafe housing provided by your employer?
• Are you experiencing physical, verbal, or psychological abuse from a supervisor?
• Is someone holding your identification, passport, or immigration documents against your will?
• Are you isolated from friends, family, or others who might help you?
• Have you been pressured into illegal activities as part of your job?

If you answered “yes” to any of these, you may be experiencing labor trafficking — and you are not alone. Help is available.

Pathways to Safety and Stability

Leaving a trafficking situation is never easy, especially when fear, threats, or financial pressures are involved. But support is available, and no one should have to face exploitation alone. Our website includes a list of Arizona-based resources for survivors and allied professionals, including shelter, legal assistance, mental health services, employment support, and more.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. For confidential help, contact the Arizona Human Trafficking Tip Line at 📞 1-877-429-8477 or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 📞 1-888-373-7888.

How to Avoid Labor Trafficking Situations

While no one is ever at fault for being trafficked, there are ways to protect yourself and others when entering new job situations. Here are some tips:

• Be cautious of job offers that require up-front fees or that sound too good to be true.
• Always get a written contract and review it in a language you understand.
• Never hand over your passport or personal documents to your employer.
• Avoid employers who threaten or pressure you to stay on the job.
• Be aware of your rights as a worker — regardless of immigration status, everyone has basic labor protections in the U.S.
• Stay connected to friends, family, or trusted people who can help if something feels wrong.
• Reach out to local organizations (like ours) if you need support, translation, or someone to review a job situation with you.

The Work We Do

Who We Help