Houston, a city defined by its sprawling highways, international airports and global reach, is also at the forefront of one of the most urgent battles of our time—ending human trafficking. At the intersection of millions of travelers and countless stories, Houston Airports is not just moving people—it’s changing lives. 

January 11 marks National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, a date that urges Americans to wear blue—the official color of human trafficking awareness—and stand united against exploitation. It’s a visible declaration of hope, and for Houston Airports, it represents action, accountability and progress.

“We are more than gateways to the world,” says Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “We are a force for good. With millions of people passing through our doors each year, we have a responsibility to protect the vulnerable and empower the community to recognize the signs of human trafficking. That responsibility drives us every day.”

                                                 Houston Airports Airside Operations group poses in support of National Human Trafficking Awareness Day.

A Network of Awareness

Houston Airports, which operates George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and Ellington Airport (EFD), has made combating human trafficking a central pillar of its mission. In 2019, Houston Airports became the first airport system in the United States to join the Blue Lightning Initiative (BLI)—a program developed by the Department of Homeland Security to train aviation personnel in identifying and reporting human trafficking.

Since then, thousands of badged airport workers have received specialized training. That number includes everyone from ticket agents to custodians, who often have the most direct interactions with passengers and the greatest ability to notice when something doesn’t seem right.

The results have been transformative. In May 2022, 450 law enforcement officers, TSA agents and airport employees participated in hands-on training at Bush Airport, equipping them with tools to disrupt trafficking networks in real-time.

“Innovation doesn’t just happen in technology; it happens in purpose-driven programs that protect lives,” says Kelly Woodward, chief operating officer for Houston Airports. “Our employees are trained not just to operate an airport but to serve as guardians of those who pass through it. That mindset has become part of our culture.”

The Power of Partnerships

Houston Airports has gone beyond training in its efforts. Recognizing that awareness alone isn’t enough, it has become a community leader, bringing together local organizations, government agencies and survivors to build stronger networks of support.

In April 2024, more than 300 leaders, advocates and survivors gathered at Bush Airport for a Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention event. The event sparked conversations, highlighted survivor stories and created actionable plans to strengthen prevention strategies.

Additionally, Houston Airports has raised more than $80,000 to support local advocacy groups that provide shelter, counseling, legal aid and job training to survivors. In November 2022, the airport system partnered with local businesses to sponsor educational programs, reaching more than 400 community members in one event alone.

“Houston is a world-class city, and our airports must reflect those values,” said Saba Abashawl, chief external affairs officer for Houston Airports. “Fighting human trafficking isn’t just about catching criminals. It’s about creating safe spaces, restoring dignity and demonstrating that Houston stands against exploitation in every form.”

                       International Services Group wears blue on January 11. Left to Right: Jane Myers, T.J. Davis, Yoana Ponce, Anabela Rice, Martha Carrizales

Technology With Purpose

Houston Airports has also invested in tools that make its anti-trafficking message impossible to miss. Across its two commercial airports, hundreds of posters featuring QR codes direct travelers to resources in multiple languages. Dozens of visual paging monitors flash hotline information, and strategically placed signs in restrooms and baggage claim areas create a private way for victims to seek help.

A one-of-a-kind fumigation facility at Bush Airport serves as a crucial tool in screening cargo for illegal activity, reflecting the airport system’s holistic approach to security—both for people and goods.

A Blueprint for the Future

Looking forward, Houston Airports is planning even more ambitious efforts to combat human trafficking. Members of the Houston Airports External Affairs Division regularly speak at national and international conferences, sharing best practices and encouraging other airports to follow suit. The focus is also turning toward expanding partnerships with airlines, trucking companies and rideshare services to create a broader safety net beyond the airport grounds.

“Our work isn’t finished,” Abashawl says. “Human trafficking is an evolving threat, and we have to evolve with it. But what gives me hope is the determination of our team and our city. Houston isn’t just responding to the problem. We’re leading the way forward.”

Why Blue Matters

On January 11, travelers passing through Houston’s airports will notice employees, passengers and even airport lights decked out in shades of blue. The campaign is called #WearBlueDay, a movement to spark conversations and amplify the fight against trafficking. For Houston Airports, blue isn’t just a color. It’s a promise—to stand watch, stay vigilant and make the skies safer for everyone.