Along with the Winnipeg Police Service and the RCMP, the Joy Smith Foundation launched it's new documentary on Human Trafficking in Manitoba.

Human Trafficking: Canada's Secret Shame was publicly launched today at the RCMP "D" Division headquarters. Joy Smith, along with leaders from the RCMP and WPS were there to support the documentary. 

"The RCMP and the [WPS] are the best in the world and they are doing everything they can," said Joy Smith, founder of the Joy Smith Foundation.

Chief of Police Danny Smyth said that human trafficking is becoming very difficult to investigate, as the internet allows them to stay hidden and go underground. That's why education on the subject has become increasingly important.

"To close our eyes and do nothing is not an option," Chief Smyth said.

Educating youth was the most important message at the launch, with every speaker speaking that message. The documentary explains how traffickers lure young people and how you can protect your families.

"We have to really educate parents and educate our young people so they can understand the signs," said Assistant Commissioner, Commanding Officer of Manitoba RCMP Scott Kolody. "I think it's really important that we get the messaging out.

"The only way to keep our kids safe is through education."

Another important message was that trafficking can happen to absolutely anyone. The biggest risk factor is just being a girl. Diane Redsky, Executive Director of the Ma Mawi Wi Chi itata Centre, said the most common recruitment age is 13 years old.

Sargent Tara Clelland, who works with the Missing and Exploited Persons unit, has seen the trafficking first hand and spoken to many of the survivors, who are often told the same thing.

"The messages that she had received for years from her trafficker was that [she was] invisible," Sargent Clelland said. Clelland said this survivor was standing outside at one point, barely dressed, in a lot of duress, but no body stopped to help. "If just one person had made eye contact with her . . . it might have changed what the next couple of years looked like for that little girl."

The DVD Human Trafficking: Canada's Secret Shame, is available online at www.joysmithfoundation.com.