Hundreds of middle school students from Anaheim, Fullerton and Santa Ana gathered in Costa Mesa last week to learn how to recognize and prevent human trafficking.
The third annual “Know More, Do Better” youth conference was hosted by the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force in partnership with 28 local organizations, including the Orange County Department of Education and Orange County Superior Court.
Held at Vanguard University’s Waugh Student Center, the Jan. 30 event brought together more than 500 middle schoolers from 22 campuses, equipping them with critical lessons on personal safety, online awareness and the dangers of exploitation.
Research underscores the urgency of addressing human trafficking, particularly among young people. According to the county task force, minors account for a significant portion of trafficking survivors in Orange County, with 32 percent being female and 4 percent male.
“The statistics tell a troubling story, but education is one of the most powerful tools we have to change that narrative,” said Orange County Superintendent Dr. Stefan Bean. “By empowering students with knowledge about human trafficking, we’re not only protecting them, but we’re also fostering a culture of awareness and resilience. OCDE is proud to partner in this effort to ensure our students are informed and supported.”
The event featured presentations from educators, law enforcement and survivor advocates, offering a comprehensive look at how traffickers manipulate vulnerable youth.
One of the most impactful moments was the personal testimony of Martha Trujillo, a survivor and mentor with Full Circle Orange County. Trujillo shared her experience as a trafficked teen, emphasizing how young people can be coerced into dangerous situations without realizing it.
“I thought I was making my own decisions,” Trujillo said. “But the truth is, I was trapped by invisible chains of manipulation and control. Looking back, I see how much I needed someone to tell me, ‘This isn’t your fault. You are worth so much more.’”
Organizers said the conference was designed to align with the California Healthy Youth Act, which requires school districts to provide comprehensive sexual health education, including instruction on human trafficking prevention, at least once in middle and high school.