Human trafficking: A global issue, a local problem

Elizabeth Dinh
·1 min read

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Human trafficking is an often overlooked problem. For those who may have language and cultural barriers it can stay hidden when people don’t know how to report it or who to turn to.

This past January, the Portland Police Bureau and its Asian and Pacific Islander Advisory Council had a first-of-its kind event addressing this topic at Mekong Bistro.

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Later, KOIN 6 News held a round-table discussion on the need to create awareness among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

The discussion included KOIN 6 News anchor Elizabeth Dinh, IRCO Executive Director Lee Po Cha, Toc Soneoulay-Gillespie, and PPB Officer Natasha Haunsperger.

(L-R) Elizabeth Dinh, IRCO Executive Director Lee Po Cha, Toc Soneoulay-Gillespie, PPB Officer Natasha Haunsperger in Portland, 2024 (KOIN)
(L-R) Elizabeth Dinh, IRCO Executive Director Lee Po Cha, Toc Soneoulay-Gillespie, PPB Officer Natasha Haunsperger in Portland, 2024 (KOIN)

Personal stories were shared, plus thoughts on how human trafficking has changed through the years, the reasons for it and the need to talk more about it and bring the issue out in the open.

Watch the video above for Elizabeth Dinh’s full report.

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