Edmonton airport launches safe room for human trafficking survivors

On world day against trafficking in persons, Edmonton’s airport now has a dedicated safe room for survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and those experiencing tragedy at the airport.

Busy airports like YEG are often key points where traffickers move victims, and that’s why the airport is launching this room.

It’s called kise watotatowin, meaning “sharing and giving kindness and compassion to each other.” It’s a safe space where someone being trafficked could get in touch with local law enforcement.

“We have a safe space to take them and create a rapid community wrap-around. It takes an average of seven times for a trafficking victim to have the courage to step up and ask for help. So when they do, we have to be ready, and the YEG safe room makes that possible,” said Paul Brandt, founder and CEO of #NotInMyCity.

According to #NotInMyCity, three out of four reported human trafficking cases in canada involve victims under the age of 25. The majority are women, and more than a quarter are minors.

Trafficking can range from sexual exploitation.

To the job market, traffickers use different forms of exploitation, with reports of immigration papers being used against temporary foreign workers to gain housing or financial control.

Just this July, Alberta RCMP arrested two Edmonton residents, one in Fox Creek and one in the town of Calmar, both charged for trafficking temporary foreign workers by financial exploitation, harassment, and intensive work hours without proper compensation.

The news is still shocking for those in the town of Calmar.

“I think that’s just kind of a deplorable action to take place, taking advantage of somebody who can’t defend or represent themselves. It’s just not right,” said Chase Paulin, a Calmar-area resident.

Insp. Keil Samotej, the officer-in-charge of the Leduc and YEG RCMP detachment, said, “They believe they’re coming here with good intentions or supported by people within contentions, and unfortunately, it’s not what’s happening right.”

RCMP hopes this new space in the airport will help those victimized report suspected trafficking and receive support, while also providing a transitional space with a bed, kitchen, books, and airport-provided food.

“A lot of people who are being human trafficked are maybe not aware of the services that are available to help them,” said Samotej.

Erin Isfeld, the YEG Corporate Communications Manager, added, “As an airport, really, we’re just providing this space and ensuring that the right connections are happening.”

The space is a cooperation with #NotInMyCity, the airport, and police agencies.