There are over 1 million people in the United States living in a sickening state of domestic servitude. Immigrants, women, and children are disproportionately affected, often trapped by threats, debt bondage, or lack of legal protection.
The number of those in domestic servitude has risen, reflecting a troubling trend. According to the Polaris Project, 71% of trafficking victims are women, and many are forced into domestic work.
The U.S. Department of State highlights that children, particularly those unaccompanied, are especially vulnerable to exploitation. This alarming increase underscores the need for stronger protective measures and enforcement against this form of exploitation.
So what exactly is domestic servitude? Domestic servitude is a severe form of exploitation where individuals are coerced into working in private homes under abusive conditions.
These workers receive little to no pay, lack job security, and often endure long hours without rest, leading to chronic sleep deprivation. They are typically isolated from the outside world, making it extremely difficult to seek help or escape their situation.
This exploitation is frequently accompanied by emotional, physical, and sexual violence, creating an environment of constant fear and control. Punishments for perceived mistakes can be harsh, including physical violence, deprivation of food, and further restriction of freedom.
The workers may also face psychological abuse, being constantly belittled and threatened. Such conditions violate basic human rights, trapping individuals in a cycle of abuse and exploitation with little hope of escape.
Domestic Servitude Meaning According to Law
Domestic servitude, according to U.S. law, is legally recognized as a form of human trafficking under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA). We, Thorsnes Bartolotta McGuire, are dedicated to ending this gross abuse of the undocumented and underage population.
We continue to fight to end this horrific human rights violation. And we’ve done our best to help survivors regain control of their lives.
With over four decades of experience supporting victims, we’ve achieved remarkable results for our clients, including $20 million for 22 young women trapped in sex trafficking operations.
Contact us online or call (619) 236-9363 if this horrendous industry has exploited you or someone you know. We’re passionate about helping victims experiencing this form of slavery.
Domestic Servitude: The Modern-Day Slavery
The domestic servitude definition includes:
- Forced Labor
- Sex Trafficking
- Debt Bondage
Forced Labor & Domestic Servitude
Forced labor in the context of domestic servitude occurs when individuals are compelled to work through the use of force, threats, or coercion.
In such cases, victims may be forced to work long hours without proper rest, often in deplorable conditions. They have little to no control over their work environment, and their movements and communications are usually heavily restricted to prevent them from seeking help. According to statistics, forced labor cases comprised 10% of total trafficking situations.
Sex Trafficking & Domestic Servitude
Sex trafficking is the most common and horrific form of domestic servitude. It is a particularly heinous form of exploitation, leading to severe physical and emotional trauma for the victims.
Sex trafficking cases comprise 72% of total trafficking situations, making it the worst and most virulent form of human exploitation. This form of domestic servitude often involves mothers, minors, and queer individuals– especially those identifying as transgender.
Sex trafficking is one of the worst and most prevalent forms of exploitation in this country. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing this type of abuse, help us build a case against the perpetrators. Get in touch online or by phone at (619) 236-9363
Debt Bondage & Domestic Servitude
Debt bondage, also known as bonded labor, occurs when a person is forced to work to repay a debt or loan. Typically, the terms of the debt are deliberately structured to be unpayable, with exorbitant interest rates or continuous accumulation of new charges.
In the case of domestic servitude, individuals might be lured with promises of legitimate employment and then find themselves trapped by debt incurred for travel expenses, recruitment fees, or inflated costs of living. Their passports or identity documents might be confiscated to prevent escape. An element of debt bondage happens in all forms of domestic servitude.
Warning Signs of Domestic Servitude & Exploitation
Here are some warning signs you can watch out for when suspecting potential domestic servitude.
- Signs of Fear or Anxiousness: The individual appears nervous or afraid when interacting with others or their employer.
- Marks or Bruises: There are visible injuries or explanations for these injuries.
- Lack of Privacy: The person is always accompanied by someone who seems to control their movements or interactions.
- Lack of Clothing: The individual wears clothing that is out of season, often indicating poor living conditions.
- Restricted Communication: The person avoids eye contact, or communication is restricted or controlled by someone else.
- Visible Signs of Neglect: The individual appears malnourished, unkempt, or lacking basic personal hygiene.
- Lack of Personal Possessions: The person has few personal belongings, and their living area is sparse or inadequate.
- Conflicting Backstory or Background: There are inconsistencies in the person's story about their situation, background, or employment conditions.
Help Thorsnes Bartolotta McGuire End Domestic Servitude
We’re here to help you take the first step toward freedom. With years of experience representing adults and children who have been sexually exploited, we promise to handle your case with the utmost care.
Schedule a free consultation through our secure online form or call (619) 236-9363 to learn more about your options. There are no upfront fees or charges for any work we do unless we win. Even then, your compensation comes first.
As a survivor, you have the option to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrators and those who assisted them. The choice to pursue legal action can help secure compensation for a better, safer future. Help us end this cycle of abuse within our borders.