For Immediate Release
January 31, 2024
Contact:
Office of Communications and Media Affairs
(678) 920-0857
Mayor Dickens, ATL Airport Officials and Partners Reaffirm Commitment to Combating Human Trafficking
ATL leaders and government officials discussed ways to recognize and prevent human trafficking
ATLANTA – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) reaffirmed its commitment to the fight against human trafficking during its annual Human Trafficking Awareness Month press conference, held the morning of Jan. 30. Mayor Andre Dickens, alongside ATL Interim General Manager Jan Lennon and key government and advocacy leaders, addressed the public to emphasize the importance of awareness, collaboration and action in preventing human trafficking.
Speakers included Chief of the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit Hannah Palmquist, Atlanta FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke, Atlanta Police Major Kelley Collier, Board of Education Chair Erika Mitchell, youthSpark Executive Director Jennifer Swain, Freedom Aviation CEO Jared Miller and Woman at the Well Transition Center Founder Bishop Donna Hubbard. Together, they reinforced the urgent need for a united front against sexual exploitation, forced labor, and trafficking crimes that continue to affect communities nationwide.
“To fight human trafficking, the City of Atlanta has had to form a strong coalition with our regional and state partners. We realized early on that this issue is way too big for any one group to fight successfully,” said Mayor Andre Dickens. “Human trafficking is much more than a law enforcement issue—it takes vigilance on all our parts. So, we urge travelers as well as airport and airline personnel: if you see something suspicious, say something to authorities.”
“As the world’s busiest and most efficient airport, Hartsfield-Jackson has a unique responsibility—not just to connect people but to protect them,” said Airport Interim General Manager Jan Lennon. “ATL has a long history of leading the aviation industry in the fight against human trafficking, partnering with local and national organizations to ensure we remain vigilant, proactive, and prepared. Together, we can be a powerful force for good—ensuring Hartsfield-Jackson remains a safe and welcoming space for all.”
The event highlighted the importance of public vigilance and reporting suspicious activity. Officials urged travelers, airport employees, and the broader community to stay informed about the signs of human trafficking and to report concerns through the appropriate channels.
ATL remains committed to raising awareness, enhancing security measures, and working with partners to combat human trafficking year-round. Through continued education and outreach efforts, the Airport aims to empower the public and strengthen prevention strategies to protect vulnerable individuals. For information on human trafficking prevention and potential indicators, please visit www.atl.com/human-trafficking-prevention.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
ATL is the first airport in history to serve more than 100 million passengers in one year and continues to top passenger totals worldwide. In response to the pandemic, Hartsfield-Jackson pivoted to focus on implementing heightened safety protocols while maintaining efficiency and financial stability. The Airport boasts a direct economic impact of $66 billion in the state. A frequent recipient of awards of excellence, ATL is recognized for its leadership in concessions, operations, sustainability, architectural engineering, and construction. For more information, visit www.atl.com.
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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, 6000 N. Terminal Pkwy, Atrium Suite 4000, Atlanta, GA 30320, United States
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