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Oct 18, 2018

TABC Partners with Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott in the Fight Against Human Trafficking

AUSTIN ā€“ A new public service announcement that builds upon Texas' "Be The One" anti-human trafficking campaign is the first product of a new partnership between the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and the First Lady of Texas.

First Lady Cecilia Abbott is the featured presenter in TABC's "Be The One" video, a public-facing PSA that alerts viewers to some of the most common human trafficking warning signs while listing ways citizens can report suspicious activity to TABC and other law enforcement agencies.

"Across Texas, thousands of people are exploited through forced labor or the sex trade. And, as most of us go about our daily lives, these victims are hidden in plain sight," the First Lady said. "But the people of Texas are joining together in the fight against human trafficking. Thank you to the TABC for launching this very important public awareness campaign. Working together, we will reach our goal of eradicating human trafficking from Texas."

As the state's sole alcohol regulator, TABC is the primary agency responsible for investigating suspected human trafficking taking place at TABC-licensed bars, clubs, convenience stores, and other alcohol retailers. The agency frequently partners with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to conduct long-term investigations into locations where suspected trafficking is taking place. Since 2013, TABC has shuttered more than 100 locations with ties to organized criminal activity including human trafficking.

"I can't think of anyone better than Mrs. Abbott to serve as the voice of this important campaign," said TABC Chairman Kevin Lilly. "The fight against human trafficking is something all Texans should be invested in. Mrs. Abbott's leadership and advocacy for the victims of human trafficking are an incredible resource both for TABC and for all of Texas' law enforcement officers."

The new video was debuted at a press conference at the Texas Capitol on October 18 and is now available for viewing onĀ TABC's YouTube channelĀ .

The "Be The One" campaign was conceived by the office of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in 2017. Since the campaign was introduced, thousands of Texans have been educated about the dangers and warning signs of human trafficking. For more on the Attorney General's campaign, and for further resources, visitĀ The Attorney General's site on human trafficking. Read more on TABC'sĀ campaign against human trafficking.

Contact: Chris Porter TABC Public Information Officer (512) 206-3462