STAY CONNECTED: Have the stories that matter most delivered every night to your email inbox. Subscribe to our daily local news wrap.
ID 39488052 © Jerrold Griffith | Dreamstime.com
By Tanner Smith
#NotInMyCity

Grande Prairie community raising awareness on human trafficking

May 26, 2025 | 12:41 PM

The Grande Prairie community is taking a stand against human trafficking.

The Grande Prairie Airport is joining a national movement to combat human trafficking; #NotInMyCity.

Started by Alberta Country singer Paul Brandt in 2017, this initiative raises awareness on human trafficking operations while supporting victims.

As part of this initiative, airport staff will now be trained on how to recognize and respond to potential signs of trafficking while developing public awareness campaigns.

“By equipping frontline staff with the tools to recognize and respond to signs of exploitation, this partnership helps build a safer and more vigilant travel network,” said Paul Brandt.

This training is essential as according to Public Safety Canada, 91 per cent of victims are trafficked by someone they know, while 93 per cent of all trafficked victims were women or girls; With women who fall into indigenous, immigrant, 2SLGBTQI+, and socially or economically challenged groups having an even higher chance of being trafficked.

GPA’s CEO Brian Grant said now that they’re an official ally, they “can play a critical role in identifying and reporting signs of human trafficking.”

The Community Interact Club is also raising awareness in the community on human trafficking.

A live concert is being planned for Friday, June 6, at the KMSC Law Performing Arts Theatre, featuring local musicians.

Tickets are available on the Grande Prairie Live Theatre’s website, and all ages are welcome. However, residents are being advised that sensitive topics will be covered.

by Tanner Smith