The Super Bowl is one of the largest sporting events in the world, drawing thousands of visitors and generating millions in economic activity. However, for years, it has also been linked to an increase in human trafficking due to the influx of tourists, heightened demand for commercial sex, and the anonymity of large crowds. In response, anti-trafficking organizations, law enforcement agencies, legislators, and private companies have ramped up efforts to combat trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals.
This year, as Super Bowl LVIII takes place in Las Vegas, significant progress is being made in the fight against human trafficking. From enhanced law enforcement strategies to corporate engagement and public awareness campaigns, multiple stakeholders are working together to disrupt trafficking networks and support survivors.
1. Strengthened Collaboration and Law Enforcement Training
Local and federal law enforcement agencies are increasingly collaborating with non-profits and survivor-led organizations to tackle human trafficking proactively.
For Super Bowl LVIII, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) partnered with Signs of Hope, a Las Vegas-based anti-trafficking organization, to train officers on identifying and assisting trafficking victims. This initiative aims to equip law enforcement personnel with the necessary skills to recognize trafficking indicators, conduct victim-centered investigations, and provide support services to survivors (Operation Underground Railroad, 2024).
These partnerships between law enforcement and advocacy groups are crucial in ensuring that victims receive help rather than facing criminalization. By deploying specialized task forces, implementing undercover operations, and increasing police presence in high-risk areas, authorities are working to prevent trafficking before it escalates.
2. Public Awareness Campaigns and Community Involvement
One of the most powerful tools in fighting trafficking is public awareness. Educating visitors, fans, and local residents about human trafficking and how to report it plays a vital role in disrupting trafficking networks.
A notable example is the “Team Up Against Human Trafficking” campaign, organized by the global non-profit It’s A Penalty. This initiative, endorsed by NFL players and supported by hospitality giants, educates the public on the signs of human trafficking. Posters, billboards, social media campaigns, and in-flight videos help spread the message to millions of Super Bowl attendees and travelers (Operation Underground Railroad, 2024).
Local organizations are also mobilizing community members to participate in outreach efforts, distributing informational materials in hotels, airports, and entertainment districts to ensure that as many people as possible can recognize and report trafficking.
3. Legislative Action and Government Commitment
The involvement of policymakers has been a game-changer in recent years, leading to new policies and funding for anti-trafficking initiatives during the Super Bowl and beyond.
For Super Bowl LVIII, members of the Nevada Congressional delegation, including U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, have expressed strong support for combating trafficking. They have partnered with the NFL and law enforcement agencies to enhance prevention efforts, improve victim support services, and strengthen legal frameworks to hold traffickers accountable (Operation Underground Railroad, 2024).
By prioritizing survivor-centered policies and increasing funding for trafficking prevention programs, legislators are working to create lasting systemic change beyond the Super Bowl.
4. Corporate Responsibility and Hospitality Industry Engagement
Private-sector involvement has grown significantly, particularly within the travel and hospitality industries, which play a major role in identifying and preventing trafficking.
This year, companies such as Airbnb, Caesars Entertainment, Hilton, IHG Hotels & Resorts, MGM Resorts International, and Wynn Resorts have actively participated in anti-trafficking initiatives. They are training staff to recognize potential trafficking situations, implementing stricter guest screening policies, and distributing educational materials to employees and customers (Operation Underground Railroad, 2024).
Hotels, in particular, have been identified as key locations where traffickers exploit victims. By engaging hotel staff in anti-trafficking training and awareness efforts, companies can create an environment where trafficking is harder to hide.Since hotels are one of the main places traffickers operate, ensuring that staff are trained makes trafficking harder to hide.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Anti-Trafficking Efforts Beyond the Super Bowl
While the Super Bowl serves as a catalyst for ramping up anti-trafficking efforts, advocates stress the importance of maintaining year-round vigilance. The initiatives deployed during major events should be integrated into long-term policies and strategies to ensure that trafficking prevention and victim support remain priorities beyond game day.
The collaboration between law enforcement, non-profits, legislators, and the private sector is proving to be an effective approach in the fight against human trafficking. By continuing to raise awareness, strengthen policies, and empower communities, we make an impact at large sporting events.
How You Can Help at Super Bowl 2025.
The fight against human trafficking doesn’t stop at awareness—it requires action. This year, Rahab’s Daughters will be on the ground in Las Vegas providing rescue, outreach, survivor support, and prayer teams to protect those at risk and help survivors find safety.
- Volunteer – Join our outreach teams on the ground or support us remotely. Sign up here.
- Donate – Help us provide shelter, transportation, and resources for survivors. Every contribution makes a difference. Donate here.
Together, we can take a stand against trafficking at Super Bowl 2025 and beyond. Will you join us?