Dupage Policy Journal

State Representative Nicole La Ha (R-Homer Glen) is actively campaigning to raise awareness about human trafficking, underlining the necessity of collective efforts to eradicate this grave crime. Dressed in a conspicuous blue outfit, La Ha participated in the campaign against human trafficking and promoted a Blue Campaign advertisement on her social media platforms.

“Wearing my brightest blue today to raise awareness and join in the fight to end human trafficking,” La Ha stated on her Facebook post sharing the campaign ad from DHS.

The timing of this initiative is critical as Illinois ranks 9th among U.S. states for human trafficking incidents in 2022. Although around 300 cases of human trafficking were reported in the state in 2020, global estimates indicate that approximately 25 million individuals worldwide are victims of human trafficking. A report from WCBU underscores that human trafficking occurs "most certainly in Central Illinois."

In Chicago, according to Insider Monkey, the rate of human trafficking crimes stands at 0.02%. Disturbing statistics reveal that over 16,000 women and girls become victims of trafficking annually. Shockingly, 62% are under 18 years old and nearly 30% are below the age of 15. These figures have led the FBI to categorize Chicago as a "High-Intensity Child Prostitution" hotspot. Therefore, initiatives like Webb’s presentation become even more crucial in addressing this urgent issue.

Former U.S. Border Patrol agent Ammon Blair has exposed Mexican drug cartels' extensive network involved in producing counterfeit documents for immigrants—a practice contributing significantly to child labor and human trafficking within the United States. According to Federal Newswire, these cartels create fake IDs—including state IDs and driver’s licenses—and steal American Social Security Numbers (SSNs), which they then sell to illegal immigrants. Despite the efforts of Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) to seize these counterfeit IDs, this criminal activity continues unabated, complicating the process of accurately identifying individuals.

La Ha was recently appointed to fill the vacancy in the 82nd State House District following John Egofske's resignation. The former Mrs. America, who previously served as press secretary for Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods), has a significant background in public advocacy and active involvement in charitable committees. Notably, she received the 2018 International Humanitarian Award for exceptional community service. La Ha's campaign website prominently displays her unwavering commitment to community service, highlighting her election to the Village of Homer Glen Board of Trustees in 2021. During her term, she strongly opposed tax increases and played a key role in improving the quality of life for residents with disabilities.

La Ha is currently campaigning for a full term representing the 82nd District. The district includes Darien and Lemont in DuPage and Cook counties. Ballotpedia also lists Democrat Suzanne Akhras as another candidate competing for the seat.