In recognition of 2026 National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, state leaders convened at the Maryland State House to highlight Maryland’s commitment to step up to combat human trafficking as the federal government steps back. Headlined by Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, the event was spearheaded by longtime survivor advocate Maryland Secretary of State Susan Lee, and Susan Esserman, founder and CEO of the University of Maryland SAFE Center for Human Trafficking Survivors.
Attorney General Brown, cabinet officials, agency heads, and social service, faith, and survivor leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the fight against trafficking. On behalf of the SAFE Center, Susan Esserman emphasized the importance of not losing ground in these efforts and welcomed the state stepping up to fill the gaps. She highlighted the need to give greater attention to labor trafficking and proposed additional actions to be taken by the state.
Read the full event recap from the University of Maryland, Baltimore here.
Photo Credit: Joe Andrucyk, Office of Governor Wes Moore
