Understanding the Context

Human trafficking can happen in many different ways. Often taking advantage of people experiencing housing instability, financial insecurity, substance use, isolation, or lack of support systems it ultimately knows no bounds.

For Indigenous people in Canada, we can not ignore that trafficking risks may also be connected to systemic issues such as:

Impacts of colonial policies and residential schools

Displacement from traditional lands or community

Involvement with child welfare systems

Housing shortages in many communities

Poverty and lack of transportation between communities and cities

Mistrust of authorities due to past harms

Because of this history, culturally safe support services are important.

if you are in immediate danger call 911.

Individuals can request culturally appropriate support by saying something like:

“I’m looking for confidential help and I would prefer Indigenous-led or culturally safe services.”

Many organizations can connect people with:

• Indigenous advocates
• Elders or Knowledge Keepers
• Indigenous liaison workers
• Land-based or cultural healing programs

Reach Out to Someone You Trust
If possible, tell someone you trust such as:
• a friend
• a family member
• a community outreach worker
• an Elder or Knowledge Keeper
• a health worker

You do not need to explain everything at once. Simply saying “I need help” is enough.

Try to Keep Important Documents Safe

If possible, try to keep or make copies of important items such as:
• ID or status card
• health card
• passport
• birth certificate
• bank card and financial documents

  • Phone: 1-855-242-3310

  • Phone: 1-844-413-6649

  • Phone: 1-800-667-0816

    Email: onwa@onwa.ca

  • Phone: 1-866-925-4419

  • Phone: 1-800-721-0066

  • Phone: 1-888-688-6677

    Email: weloveyou@nors.ca

Signs that someone may need support.

  • Someone controlling where a person goes, who they talk to, or where they stay

    A person feeling pressured or forced to do things they do not want to do.

    Someone speaking for the individual or not allowing them to answer questions themselves.

    Fearful or anxious behaviour around a specific person.

  • Someone taking or holding identification documents, status cards, passports, or phones.

    Limited ability to leave a location freely.

    Being constantly monitored, transported, or escorted by someone else.

    Isolation From Support Systems.

    Being separated from family, friends, community, or cultural supports.

    Not being allowed to attend ceremonies, speak their language, or connect with Elders.

    Frequent movement between cities or communities with little explanation.

  • Someone else controlling money, bank accounts, or benefits.

    Being told they “owe” someone money for travel, housing, food, or protection.

    Working but not receiving payment or only receiving small amounts.

    Housing or Living Conditions

    Living in overcrowded or unsafe housing.

    Being moved frequently between hotels, apartments, or houses.

    Being dependent on someone else for shelter.

  • Being recruited for work that seems unclear or misleading.

    Being offered travel, gifts, drugs, or money in exchange for companionship or work.

    Someone arranging transportation while keeping control of the person.

  • Appearing fearful, withdrawn, anxious, or overly submissive.

    Sudden changes in behaviour or lifestyle.

    Avoiding eye contact or seeming coached on what to say.

    Expressing fear about authorities or consequences if they speak up.

  • Being pressured to perform labour, services, or sexual acts against their will.

    Someone advertising another person’s services online or controlling their social media.

    Being forced to meet quotas or bring in money.

  • Dependence on someone else for rides between communities or into cities.

    Threats involving children, custody, or family members.

    Being told not to speak to outreach workers or service providers.

    Being unable to leave work or housing situations without consequences.

These signs do not confirm trafficking, but they may indicate that someone could benefit from confidential support, safety planning, and/or additional services.

Prioritize safety and privacy.

Avoid pressuring them to report if they are not ready.

Offer practical assistance such as transportation, phone access, or a safe place to rest.

Ask what type of support they prefer (Elder, Indigenous advocate, friend, family member, health care team).

Focus on empowerment and choice and safety.

Everyone’s path to safety and healing is different. The most important step is ensuring the person feels respected, supported, and in control of their decisions.

You are allowed to ask for help.
You deserve safety and support.