The Town of Gilbert on Jan. 6 issued proclamations recognizing January 2026 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month and to raise community awareness of trafficking and victim support.

Tano Gilbert, speaking for the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, told the council that trafficking "often occurs in plain sight" across Maricopa County and urged residents to learn warning signs, report concerns and support victims as part of the office's 'Break the Chain' campaign. He said awareness alone is not enough: "Trafficking depends on silence, isolation, and lack of awareness. We break that chain by educating ourselves and recognizing the warning signs."

Representatives of the Not In Our City movement and several local pastors described an eight-year church-led effort to mobilize communities statewide, highlighted partnerships with local law enforcement and announced a 'Night of Hope' event on Feb. 22 to further public education and prevention efforts.

The council presented both proclamations and invited the county office and local organizations to continue outreach and coordination with schools, nonprofits and businesses.