February is an exciting time for Louisiana as we prepare to host one of the biggest sporting events in the world, the Super Bowl. This event brings energy, tourism, and economic opportunities, but it also comes with heightened risks, particularly in the fight against human trafficking. Research indicates that large-scale gatherings, such as the Super Bowl, can create environments where traffickers exploit vulnerable individuals, particularly those already at high risk.
According to the International Labour Organization, an estimated 4.8 million people worldwide are victims of forced sexual exploitation, with traffickers frequently targeting those who are marginalized or in unstable circumstances. Children in foster care are among the most vulnerable. The National Foster Youth Institute estimates that 60% of child sex trafficking victims in the U.S. have a history in the foster care system. Many of these children have already experienced abuse, neglect, or homelessness, making them prime targets for traffickers who prey on instability and lack of support. Research from Thorn, an anti-human trafficking organization, found that over 70% of trafficked youth reported having been in child protective services at some point in their lives.
While major events like the Super Bowl do not independently cause trafficking, they do create conditions that can amplify existing trafficking networks. Increased tourism, temporary workforces, and a rise in demand for commercial sex can provide cover for traffickers to operate more freely. A 2020 study published by the University of Texas at Austin found that online sex advertisements in host cities tend to rise before and during major sporting events, suggesting an increase in potential trafficking activity.
As we look at the magnitude of the Super Bowl, it’s important to reflect on the scale of the foster care crisis as well. The five largest NFL stadiums in the country could be filled to capacity and still wouldn’t hold all the children currently in foster care. With over 437,000 children in the system, the need for advocates has never been greater. To put this into perspective, in the time it takes for a single commercial break during the Super Bowl, one child will enter foster care. By the end of the game, approximately 120 children across the U.S. will have entered the system. As thousands of fans fill the Caesars Superdome, imagine if just 6% of the attendees became a CASA volunteer. That small percentage alone would be enough to ensure that every child in Louisiana’s foster care system has an advocate.
Every child deserves a champion—someone who stands up for them and ensures their voice is heard. Just one caring adult can make a lasting difference in a child’s life. Will you step up and be the advocate they need?
Across the state, important efforts are underway to combat this issue. The Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention recently launched two major initiatives to raise awareness and provide resources. The Victim Outreach Campaign, a trauma-informed and survivor-centered effort, features artwork created by youth survivors of trafficking. These materials, available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, will be posted across New Orleans and statewide ahead of the Super Bowl, ensuring that vital information reaches those who need it most. Organizations and agencies are encouraged to share these materials widely. The second initiative, the Tackle Human Trafficking PSA, was created in partnership with the New Orleans Saints, Cox Communications, and the Louisiana Legislative Women’s Caucus. Featuring Governor Jeff Landry, Saints and Pelicans Owner Gale Benson, and other prominent leaders, the PSA aims to educate the public on recognizing and preventing human trafficking. It will air statewide in the lead-up to the Super Bowl.
At Louisiana CASA, our mission is to advocate for children who need a voice. As we welcome the Super Bowl to New Orleans, let’s celebrate responsibly while also committing to keeping our communities safe. Human trafficking thrives in secrecy, but when we stand together in awareness and action, we can make a difference. Let’s remain vigilant, spread awareness, and continue working toward a Louisiana where every child is protected and supported.
Amanda Moody
Louisiana CASA Executive Director
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