Glendale proclaims January Human Trafficking Prevention Month; local groups invite residents to awareness events

The Glendale City Council on Jan. 27 adopted a proclamation recognizing January 2026 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month, urging schools, churches, nonprofits, businesses and law enforcement to increase awareness and support for victims.

Scott September, representing notinourcity.org, thanked the council for the proclamation and described the group’s Night of Hope event, saying, “proclamations are important because they tell people who you are and what you believe in.” He invited council and residents to the Night of Hope on Feb. 22 at Pure Heart Church, north of Thunderbird and 43rd Avenue, beginning at 5 p.m.

A pastor introduced at the meeting as Rob of Pure Heart Church thanked the council and described his long ties to the community, saying he and his wife have lived in Glendale for nearly 40 years and that the event will be “educational, informative” and intended to bring people together to make positive steps in combating exploitation.

Council member Diana Guzman also promoted an upcoming Hope Walk organized by Where Hope Lives, stating the walk will be held at Westgate Entertainment Center and highlighting that January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. “It is a family friendly event,” Guzman said, and encouraged residents to attend in support of local rescue and recovery efforts.

The proclamation named local law enforcement human trafficking detectives (Sergeant Eric Hart and Commander Horrell) and signaled city support for coordinated community response to human trafficking. The council and community presenters emphasized awareness, victim support and partnerships among law enforcement, faith groups and nonprofits.

The council adopted the proclamation during the Jan. 27 voting meeting; presenters encouraged residents to attend the listed events for additional information and community engagement.