MKE Announces Campaign To End Human Trafficking

MILWAUKEE, WI — Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is increasing efforts to identify and stop human trafficking.

Passengers have recently begun noticing signage throughout the airport asking for help in spotting signs of human trafficking. Additional signage installed in restrooms details how victims of human trafficking can reach out for help.

“Human trafficking occurs in every county in Wisconsin. In our area, studies show about two-thirds of human trafficking victims are Black, and a staggering 97 percent of victims are women,” Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley said.

Transportation and travel industry members are working together to combat human trafficking. As part of this effort, MKE has joined the Transportation Leaders Against Human Trafficking (TLAHT) initiative. The Blue Lightning Initiative is supported by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Department of Homeland Security, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

“MKE is committed to stopping human trafficking by educating our employees and alerting
passengers on what to look for,” Airport Director Brian Dranzik. “Nearly all of our employees have
completed Blue Lightning Initiative training, while many airline and tenant employees have also
gone through their own training to spot and respond to human trafficking. Our new signage is part of the Airport’s efforts to step up awareness and shine a light on this important initiative.”

Anyone who observes any suspected human trafficking should call 1-866-347-2423 to report it.