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Sex Slaves and Serfs: The Dynamics of Human Trafficking in a Small Florida Town

NCJ Number
239539
Author(s)
Erin C. Heil
Date Published
2012
Length
177 pages
Annotation
This book explores the global problem of human trafficking in the context of a case study from Immokalee, FL.
Abstract
This book describes the dynamics that allow both agricultural and sexual forced labor to flourish. Highlighted are community anti-trafficking responses, including the perspectives of traffickers, victims, and community members. Chapter 1 serves as an overview on forced labor and describes the Immokalee, FL case study. Chapter 2 initiates the discussion of slavery by providing an overview of the agricultural slavery evident in Immokalee, FL; in particular, this chapter discusses the day-to-day activities of the field laborers in the month of October through May. Human rights violations are examined, as well as an analysis as to why these violations continue to occur. Chapter 3 discusses forced commercial sex labor. Chapter 4 is an overview of the unique role law enforcement plays in a predominantly illegal community. Chapter 5 covers those organizations that work actively to educate the public on slavery while assisting the victims. Chapter 6 concludes with an overall analysis of the persistence of modern-day slavery in Immokalee, FL. Finally, this chapter stresses how State complicity is an obstacle to anti-trafficking efforts, and that until invisible lines are exposed, the practice of slavery will continue in the United States. Tables, appendixes, bibliography, and index