Anti-Human Trafficking Campaign Launches Monday

Top political names involved in 'What is 13?' campaign

AUTHORS Cari Wade Gervin

On Monday, local non-profit End Slavery Tennessee will launch a major media campaign with big names attached—Gov. Bill Haslam, Nashville Mayor Megan Barry, U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, and Attorney General Herb Slatery. Entitled "What is 13?", the campaign is designed to raise awareness that the average age of entry into human trafficking is 13. In a press release, End Slavery Tennessee executive director Derri Smith states:

“Thirteen is the age of first crushes, braces, sports team try-outs and first school dances. At 13, children are entering the new world of middle school, attending sleepovers and roller skating on Friday night.  But unfortunately for some, 13 is the average age of entry into human trafficking right here in Tennessee where 94 minors a month are deceived, coerced, and sold, usually for sex.”

American Advertising Federation Nashville created the campaign, which will also feature TBI Director Mark Gwyn, radio personality George Plaster, TBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Margie Quin, Miss Tennessee United States Sarah Gross and Mrs. Tennessee Cheryl Brehm. The videos will be featured on a website, WhatIs13.com.