Myles is executive director of the Washington-based Polaris Project, the largest, most wide-reaching anti-human-trafficking group in the world. He is responsible for overseeing Polaris’ programs, finances, and operations. Myles also supervises the group’s lobbying efforts as it works to push through regulations that would crack down on modern day slavery.
How did you get involved with the fight against human trafficking?
I got involved after I graduated college in 2002 and started reading reports and articles on human trafficking. I developed a passion for the fight because I felt we need to rid the world of this scourge.
What keeps you going?
I boils down to that I think it’s an outrage that human trafficking exists in our society. I have resolved to do something about it and I believe we have the tools to solve the problem. Human trafficking violates the values of our society and we shouldn’t stand for it.
Why did you chose to get involved with Polaris?
I learned about Polaris in 2004 and I was drawn to the fact that it exclusively works on the issue of human trafficking, but in a comprehensive way. It works directly with victims, law enforcement, while also raising awareness and pushing for legislation. It’s the only place I could go where I could work on all areas of the issue while in one place.
What can people do to help the fight?
We encourage people to call the national human trafficking hot line at 888-373-7888 if they see or hear something that would constitute human trafficking. It’s also important for people to get educated on the subject. There are local groups people can join and they can visit www.polarisproject.org.
— Freeman Klopott
