To coincide with Human Trafficking Prevention Month, Bridgestone Americas and Nashville International Airport proudly announce they have joined the more than 250 businesses and thousands of Tennesseans currently participating in the Secretary of State’s Tennessee Businesses Against Trafficking (TBAT) program.

“Tennessee is a national leader in this ongoing fight. Now, thanks to Bridgestone Americas, Nashville International Airport, and all Tennessee businesses and organizations who have partnered with us through the TBAT program, Tennesseans are raising the bar even more,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett. “This momentum wouldn’t be possible without the coalition of statewide anti-trafficking agencies, including Thistle Farms, as well as the brave survivors who have been instrumental in TBAT’s success. If you have not done so, become an official TBAT partner today, and help us continue creating a safer Tennessee.”

Human trafficking is active in all 95 Tennessee counties; the TBAT program is designed to activate businesses and their employees against the second-fastest growing criminal enterprise in our country through no-cost, in-person, or virtual training opportunities.

“Human trafficking impacts 50 million lives and generates over $236 billion in illicit profits every year,” said William (Josh) Holland, Vice-President — Bridgestone and TAT Board of Directors. “It is a crisis that demands action, and Bridgestone is determined to make a difference locally in Tennessee and nationwide.  We are proud of our partnership with Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT), and joining forces with the Secretary of State to become a Tennessee Business Against Trafficking partner allows us to make a lasting contribution in our community.”

TBAT training typically lasts one hour, and these opportunities are designed to integrate seamlessly into an organization’s schedule. The program creates a network of vigilance by ensuring Tennessee businesses, big or small, are empowered to make a tangible difference if they or their employees find themselves in a situation where a potential crime is occurring. 

“As the gateway to our great city and state, Nashville International Airport® is deeply honored to partner with Secretary Tre Hargett's initiative, Tennessee Businesses Against Trafficking,” said Doug Kreulen, president and CEO, Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority.  “Our involvement in this critical cause goes beyond just a month observance – it's about taking a stand and making a tangible difference. Creating a video with Secretary Hargett to raise awareness was not just a privilege, but a responsibility, to help educate and empower those who can help put an end to human trafficking.”

The information provided to partners through TBAT helps them recognize trafficking warning signs — whether in a work setting or as consumers in their communities. It also provides participants with a roadmap to report potential criminal activity to trained professionals with the Human Trafficking Hotline.

“Awareness can mean the difference between continued exploitation and a path to freedom. We are grateful to the Secretary of State’s office for spearheading the TBAT program and ensuring survivor voices guide these important trainings,” said Tasha Kennard, CEO of Thistle Farms. “Bridgestone Americas and the Nashville International Airport are leading by example in joining TBAT to demonstrate how businesses, nonprofits, and communities can work together to disrupt exploitation, support survivors, and send a clear message that trafficking has no place in Tennessee.”

For more information or to join TBAT today, sign up online at tbat.tnsos.gov.