Chamber joins anti-trafficking group

WASHINGTON — The Washington Chamber of Commerce has joined a statewide coalition called Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking.

Chamber Director Michelle Redlinger said all local hotels and some of the community’s Airbnbs had completed trafficking prevention training required for public officials to stay there, under state rules enacted in 2021.

“Our mission for the Chamber is to promote a progressive business climate and to promote a high quality of life in the Washington Community,” Redlinger said in an email. “The certification moves the needle on our quality of life and safety for our residents and also our guests. If the Chamber can be a voice advocating for the safety of our most precious community assets, our community members, we want to pursue that.”

On its website, IBAT calls itself a “statewide recognition and education program from the Iowa Secretary of State’s office, empowering businesses to help in the fight to end human trafficking through trainings and outreach opportunities.”

The Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Office to Combat Human Trafficking said educating the public about the issue was half the battle.

“Like most crimes, human trafficking may be hidden from public view, and it can be challenging to determine the incidence and prevalence of the crime,” the state office said in its 2022 annual report. “Many public and private sector agencies and individuals have made efforts to focus on public awareness, to include enhanced media attention.”

For human trafficking victim services in Iowa, IBAT advises people to contact the Iowa Helpline at 1-800-770-1650 or text “IOWAHELP” to 20121. To report a tip or request services, the state said people could call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline, toll-free, at 1-888-373-7888.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com