Sex trafficking, the practice of transporting and coercing persons into commercial sexual exploitation, is a global problem that’s supported by our actions (or lack thereof) here in the U.S. The question this report seeks to answer is how international sex trafficking continues to be supported in the U.S. and in Washington State in particular. Sex trafficking is a difficult topic to research, as most data lies in illegal activities among hidden populations. If, however, people are able to inform themselves about the impact of sex trafficking on the sex industry in the U.S., they may demand reform on both a societal and governmental level to combat sex slavery. My prediction is that a large factor contributing to sex trafficking’s success is simply the public’s lack of knowledge on the subject. Additionally, it’s likely that laws and societal norms as well as lack of resources/funding for anti-trafficking efforts are also contributing factors. To answer my research question I’ve read through various encyclopedias, scholarly journals, organization websites, and even a report on human trafficking in Washington State. I’ve also conducted an interview with a survivor of sex trafficking who now volunteers with helping victims of trafficking. My research focuses on development of sex trafficking, who supports it, why it thrives in Seattle, and what needs to be done to stop it. Research shows that sex trafficking is prominent in Washington State due to location, proximity to the border, and client supply. Changes in societal attitudes in conjunction with revised laws that better protect victims and punish the traffickers and greater support/funding for organizations against sex trafficking will all serve to combat this problem. If the world decided to stop human sex trafficking, then millions of people could be spared from a very tragic fate.