Hackensack mayor proclaims January Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Mayor Cassin Gaines proclaimed January 2026 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Hackensack, reading a proclamation that described human trafficking as "a crime against individuals" and urged increased public awareness and support for survivors. The proclamation cited an estimate that tens of millions of people are subjected to trafficking worldwide and defined trafficking as recruitment, harboring or obtaining a person through force, fraud or coercion for sexual or labor exploitation.

Katherine Meera accepted the proclamation on behalf of local organizers. During the reading the proclamation commended the New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking for its survivor-inclusive education, advocacy and assistance, and called on businesses, organizations and residents to help spot and report signs of trafficking.

The mayor distributed informational materials and encouraged residents and local institutions to use the city’s resources to learn the red-flag signs. Council members applauded the recognition and took a group photo with the honoree after the ceremony.

The proclamation does not create new policy or funding; it is intended to raise local awareness and strengthen coordination with state and nonprofit anti-trafficking efforts.