The Sedgwick County Board of County Commissioners on Jan. 14 adopted a proclamation declaring January 2026 Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Sedgwick County. Chairman Ryan Beatty read statutory language from KSA 21-5426 defining human trafficking during the proclamation, and the board approved the proclamation by roll call vote.

Jennifer White, executive director of ICT SOS, accepted the proclamation and summarized the local, multidisciplinary response to trafficking. "ICT SOS is excited to celebrate our fifteenth anniversary in 2026," White said, noting partnerships that include law enforcement, medical partners, social workers, advocates and volunteers. She urged residents to "know what your kids are doing online" and to "believe survivors," describing how many youth trafficking cases have an online component and how early conversations and oversight can help prevent exploitation.

White said local services provide prevention, intervention and restoration and encouraged community members to connect with providers to understand gaps and resources. She also thanked county staff (Sherry Knavel was named) for administrative support getting the proclamation on the agenda.

The commission paused briefly for a photo and recognized representatives from partner organizations as part of the proclamation ceremony.