First Lady Cecilia Abbott has initiated a statewide call to action to combat human trafficking in Texas, launching the sixth annual Week of Prayer to End Human Trafficking. This event, part of the Governor’s Response Against Child Exploitation (GRACE) initiative, will take place from January 5 through January 11, 2025. It coincides with Human Trafficking Prevention Month and aims to rally the faith-based community to engage in prayer and action against exploitation.
As part of her announcement, First Lady Abbott emphasized the importance of collective efforts in addressing this grave issue. “Nothing is stronger than Texans standing together through prayer and action,” she stated, reinforcing the idea that unity can significantly enhance the fight against exploitation. The First Lady urged Texans to dedicate time during the week to support GRACE and protect vulnerable individuals from trafficking.
The Week of Prayer includes daily prayer intentions designed to enhance community understanding and support for victims. Each day will focus on specific themes such as exposing exploiters, raising awareness, and promoting trauma-informed investigations. These targeted reflections aim to create a comprehensive approach to tackling human trafficking, addressing both the legal and emotional aspects.
In addition to the interfaith prayer initiative, Audrey O’Neill, Commissioner of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), and Blanca Lance, DFPS Director of Human Trafficking, have called for public participation. They announced the release of the 2026 Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness Month guide, which provides educational resources and community support to empower Texans in combating human trafficking. This guide was highlighted in a video release from the DFPS.
As the Week of Prayer unfolds, First Lady Abbott and state officials hope that the combined actions of prayer and community engagement will not only provide comfort to those affected but also disrupt the ongoing cycle of trafficking. The shared belief in the power of solidarity positions Texas as a leader in the fight against human trafficking, with a commitment that extends beyond prayer to tangible actions within communities and systems where vulnerable individuals seek safety and justice.
By galvanizing the faith-based community and the broader public, Texas aims to foster a culture of awareness and action that is essential in addressing this critical issue. The collective efforts during the Week of Prayer are seen as a vital step toward creating a safer environment for all Texans.
