February 22: National Human Trafficking Awareness Day in Canada

February 22 marks Canada’s National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. It is a day of reflection, recognition, and responsibility.

This day matters for many reasons.

It is a time to honour those who have been harmed by exploitation and trafficking. We remember those whose lives were taken by violence and exploitation, including Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people who have been disproportionately impacted and whose lives have too often been treated as disposable.

We also recognize the courage of those who have exited exploitation and are moving forward in their healing and recovery. Leaving exploitation is not a single moment—it is a process that requires safety, support, and community.

Awareness must go beyond statistics and social media posts. It must translate into action:

• Listening to survivors

• Supporting Indigenous-led and survivor-informed services

• Challenging the demand that fuels exploitation

• Strengthening prevention and early intervention

At A New Day, we believe awareness is meaningful only when it leads to accountability, compassion, and sustained support.

On February 22, we honour the lives lost, stand with those rebuilding their lives, and recommit ourselves to prevention, education, and justice.