• Style
  • Women
  • Huff/Post50
  • Weddings
  • HealthyLiving
  • Divorce
  • Parents
  • Sign In / Register
  • stylelist home
  • huffpost style
  • FASHION
    • Departments

      Fashion News Fashion Features Fashion Trends Designers Models Accessories
      In The Market For Intern Diaries Step Into My Office Object of My Affection Stylelist Network Stories

      Featured

      Can You Guess The Child Model's Famous Aunt? Can You Guess The Child Model's Famous Aunt?
      Vintage-Obsessed Blogger Shares 18 Recent Finds Vintage-Obsessed Blogger Shares 18 Recent Finds
      Pinterest Cracks Down On Thinspirational Images Pinterest Cracks Down On Thinspirational Images
  • BEAUTY
    • Departments

      Beauty Basics Beauty News Beauty Features Beauty Trends Uptown Downtown Makeup Healthy Beautiful You
      Skin & Body Fragrance Nails Facetime The Unexpected Icon

      Featured

      This Student Reveals Her Bright-But-Wearable Pink Lipstick Shade This Student Reveals Her Bright-But-Wearable Pink Lipstick Shade
      Do You Use A Facespray Like This Yoga Instructor? Do You Use A Facespray Like This Yoga Instructor?
      Morgan Spurlock Waxes Philosophical On Mantyhose & Manscaping Morgan Spurlock Waxes Philosophical On Mantyhose & Manscaping
  • HAIR
    • Departments

      Hair Trends Hair How To

      Featured

      The Hair Doctor Is in: Consultation Is Key The Hair Doctor Is in: Consultation Is Key
      Guess Which Beauty Treatment She Gave The President Guess Which Beauty Treatment She Gave The President
      Can Pink Hair Look Sophisticated? Can Pink Hair Look Sophisticated?
  • CELEBRITY
    • Departments

      Style Evolution Look Of The Day Uptown|Downtown A Look Back

      Featured

      How Donna Summer Helped Me Through College How Donna Summer Helped Me Through College
      PHOTOS: Cameron Diaz's Life In 54 Looks PHOTOS: Cameron Diaz's Life In 54 Looks
      PHOTOS: 27 Stars Who Look More Beautiful Without Makeup PHOTOS: 27 Stars Who Look More Beautiful Without Makeup
  • CULTURE
    • Departments

      Art & Design Film Music Books & Magazines

      Featured

      How Long Does It Take To Become Mrs. Don Draper? How Long Does It Take To Become Mrs. Don Draper?
      5 Things This Hot New Musician Can't Live Without 5 Things This Hot New Musician Can't Live Without
      PHOTOS: SXSW Street Style PHOTOS: SXSW Street Style
  • FASHION WEEK
    • Departments

      Fashion Week Spring 2012 Fashion Week Fall 2012

      Featured

      Fashion Intern Tells All From Behind The Scenes At Two British Magazines Fashion Intern Tells All From Behind The Scenes At Two British Magazines
      Prada's Take On Ombre Prada's Take On Ombre
      The Intern Diaries: Behind The Scenes At A British Magazine The Intern Diaries: Behind The Scenes At A British Magazine
  • VIDEO
  • STYLELIST NETWORK

Human Trafficking in Hair Salons

by Laura Kenney (Subscribe to Laura Kenney's posts)
Posted Aug 28th 2009 at 12:30PM  
44 Comments
Share

Photo: Getty Images

The worldwide epidemic of human trafficking has reached the beauty industry.

A West African immigrant has pleaded guilty to running a human trafficking operation that forced women to braid hair for up to 14 hours a day in Newark and East Orange NJ, reports the New Jersey Star Ledger.

In a case prosecutors equated to modern day slavery, Lassissi Afolabi, 46, told a judge he headed a ring that smuggled victims from villages in Ghana and Togo. He brought twenty women, age 10 to 19, to New Jersey, where he seized their passports, forbade them to learn English and make friends, and planted them in salons where they were forced to work up to 14 hours per day, 7 days a week.

Though not as horrific as sex-trafficking, this story brings to light the exploitation of innocents who want to find a better life in the US. And this is only one case -- we wonder how many more women are being made to work against their will in salons across the country?
Read All Comments
Filed under: Cuts & Style, Hair, News
Tags: human trafficking, HumanTrafficking, Lassissi Afolabi, LassissiAfolabi
Share

Style Around the Web

ImaxTree

ImaxTree

  • Make Up Tips For Girls With Glasses - Refinery29
  • How Celebs Work Red Into Their Wardrobe - FabSugar
  • Celebrity Wardrobe Malfunctions - The Daily Beast
  • Deodorants that Actually Work - Daily Candy
  • Would You Wear Long-Sleeve Shirts As Skirts? - The Frisky
  • Tricks That Guarantee Gorgeous Hair - Daily Makeover
  • Celebs Have Us Seeing Stars - People Style Watch

Related Videos

by 5min
  • Human Trafficking: The Crime of Slavery Human Trafficking: The Crime of Slavery Play Human trafficking is basically a form of slavery. WatchMojo speaks with Benjamin Perrin, a leading expert on the subject, to learn how this problem affects the United States and Canada.
  • Mark Lagon on the Need for Care for Victims of Human Trafficking Mark Lagon on the Need for Care for Victims of Human Trafficking Play A Luncheon Address by the Honorable Mark Lagon, U.S. Department of State on the need for care for human trafficking victims.
  • Orphans in Romania- Human Trafficking Orphans in Romania- Human Trafficking Play Learn how Human Trafficking is a big problem in Romania and globally.
  • Gloria Steinem: Human Trafficking Gloria Steinem: Human Trafficking Play Gloria Steinem discusses the problem facing women globally: sex trafficking.

READER COMMENTS

(44)Add A Comment

gary, 8-30-2009, 4:12PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
gary

And just what the hell does this have to do with the article???????????????

Reply »

parrotthegreat, 8-30-2009, 4:14PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
parrotthegreat

THAT'S MODERN SLAVERY....JUST LIKE IN MEXICO OR COLOMBIA...EVEN KIDS ARE WORKING IN THOSE COUNTRIES 18 HOURS A DAY!!..HOW COME OBAMA IS HELPING COLOMBIA WITH BILLION OF DOLLARS???..AND TRYING TI SIGN A FREE TRADE TREATY WITH A COUNTRY WHERE SLAVERY IS VERY COMMON?

Reply »

pdr, 8-30-2009, 6:16PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
pdr

Here is an excerpt from the NJ Star Ledger for you idiots who are bashing Obama :
"Afolabi is the second member of the alleged ring to admit guilt. He has been in custody since 2007."
So now I guess you will congratulate GW Bush since the arrest happened duriing his term...LoL

»

Eileen, 8-30-2009, 4:17PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
Eileen

I wish people would stop advertising on these boards!!! Aol!! Wake up and monitor the boards, ugh!!

Reply »

mc, 8-30-2009, 7:28PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
mc

I agree with you. These ads are very annoying.

»

ck, 8-30-2009, 9:07PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
ck

Click on REPORT and report these boards to AOL. Don't add to them by going on and commenting about them . Then they know people are reading the..

»

ken, 9-08-2009, 3:06PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
ken

Eileen 8-30-2009 @ 4:17PM
I wish people would stop advertising on these boards!!! Aol!! Wake up and monitor the boards, ugh!!


REPORT THEM WHEN THEY ADVERTISE !!! CLICK ON THE GRAY ! AFTER THE GREEN THIS WILL GET THEM REPORTED TO AOL THIS WAY AOL CAN MONITOR THERE POSTINGS AOL CAN NO WAY KEEP TRACK OF EVERYTHING WITH OUT HELP

Reply »

Aggie, 8-30-2009, 4:38PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
Aggie

There should be a crack down on all Africian and Asian Salons.

Reply »

kim, 8-30-2009, 5:10PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
kim

THE ASIAN SALONS WANT CASH ONLY FOR THEIR SERVICES , I THINK THE GOVERNMENT IF THEY EVEN CARE SHOULD LOOK INTO THIS SHADING WAY OF HIDING TAXABLE WAGES!!

Reply »

Christopher Hacke, 8-30-2009, 5:20PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
Christopher Hacke

And people wonder how this can happen with all the Nigerian email scams, the Burundi genocide, the Ghana corruption and the majority of African nations evil and slime, greedy political leaders and millitary tyrants. No wonder Obama doesn't talk too much about his "pure" African backgrouond anymore like he used to while being political organizer in Chicago and the early days of his campaign.

Reply »

YEP, 8-30-2009, 5:38PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
YEP

Its raining - blame Obama
Its not raining - Blame Obama

Get over it Dude - The party of NO - lost the election.

»

Matt, 8-30-2009, 6:24PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
Matt

Seriously, you are a grade-A+ douchebag. Ghana? WTF.

»

tjm, 8-30-2009, 5:22PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
tjm

so where is "rev'jackson,'rev'sharpton, and all the rest of the phony race baiters that would be screaming and protesting if there was a whitey around to blame- where the hell is the illgal husein with his pontificating- open your eyes people and see these hypocrite bastards for what they are

Reply »

Blade, 8-30-2009, 6:52PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
Blade

I absolutely agree, them not making any statement on this tells me that they are playing the double stanard line. The fact is if it had been a white person they would of been the first ones screaming.

»

j, 8-30-2009, 5:26PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
j

You know... immigration is fine, my Grandfather came here through Ellis Island... did it the right way... legally. He worked hard all his life LEGALLY.

WHAT has happened to the legitimate immigrant ? They come here and reek havoc on our country with their illegal and immoral acts. I'M SICK OF HEARING ABOUT IT ! I'M SICK OF SUPPORTING THEM !

WHEN are 'our leaders' going to LEAD ? Instead of focusing on GREED and what will benefit THEM ?

It's past time that these issues are addressed - I mean really WHAT IS TAKING SO LONG ???????!!!! WTH ?

Reply »

lili salazar, 8-30-2009, 8:18PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
lili salazar

Many people do not have the opportunity to come to the US, LAND OF OPPORTUNITY, legally. In Mexico, for example, you have to have a certain amount of money in a bank account, and have decent amount of income in the Household. HELLOOOO, if these people had money in the bank and income, there would be no need to come to the US. Unfortunately, other countries do not have the government assistance we have, such as Welfare, SSI, Disability, Unemployment, WIC, etc.... Please do not judge Immigrants without knowing all the facts. I, too, had grandparents that came here legally, but because there are so many migrants now in the US (including your ancestors), the US had to come up with rules to stop the overflow. At the time when your grandparents came across, there were no requisites, they were able to just walk across the border, not like today. Where would you be now if your grandparents were not able to come to the US? Would you be trying to come here now? Also, remember, with no employments opportunities, there is no money, and even coming here illegally requires money. Don't you think these people want to stay in their home country with their family and friends, coming to an unknown country is frightening, how would you survive if you had to go to another country not knowing the language, with no money for food or shelter, and not knowing anyone, leaving behind your family and having to find employment to send back to support that family. Do you think these immigrants want to live like that? If so, I hope you never have to find out what their world is like.

»

j, 8-30-2009, 11:17PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
j

I agree, check YOUR facts. Ellis Island was NOT just a walk across the border. There definitely were requisites ! Immigrants stayed there until they were approved... and if not approved returned to there homeland. My Grandfather had only $16.00 when he came to this country and he still managed to do it the right way. The immigrants I and many Americans disapprove of are the illegals with the crime ridden lifestyles they bring with them. This article and my comments are about such immigrants. In no way do I discriminate against any human being in this world looking for a better life... but NOT at the expense of another. Legal Immigration is a start to keeping the criminals out, as well as in keeping it fair to American Citizens in the unfair distribution of our tax dollars to such illegals. American's have hearts and do reach out to many countries that are poor. We do know what there worlds are like, and are more than grateful for our home here in America. As an activisit and a missionary for those in need... and informed citizen of Ellis Island Immigrants, your comments are unfounded.

»

Steve, 8-30-2009, 6:15PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
Steve

Doesn't surprise me, frankly if they were American I would be concerned. I think these third world idiots get what they deserve. They want to come here, god forbid it should be the right way. They play our system and tax payers suffer. I wish we could make them all work 14 hour days!!! SEND THEM ALL BACK!!! WE HAVE ENOUGH PROBLEMS THAT ARE HOME GROWN!!!!!

Reply »

CeCe, 8-30-2009, 6:44PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
CeCe

You are right that they should all be sent back. And now! But that won't happen. One reason is it would be to simple. Instead we will continue to support illegal immigrants though many of them don't work and didn't intend to when they sneaked into the US. And before any of you bleeding hearts get on your high horse, look up the word 'illegal'! Many of you seem to have forgotten what it means! I suggest you live in a border town for awhile and then let me hear what you have to say about these poor maligned people.

»

TODD, 8-30-2009, 5:45PM

2 stars vote downvote upReport
TODD

Black people sold each other the first time too, and they want to blame white people for slavery. Your own sold your ass and will do it again if given the chance.

Reply »

| 1 | 2 | 3 | Most Recent | Next 20 Comments
 
ADD A COMMENT
  • NEW USER
  • RETURNING USERS
  • AOL/AIM USERS

Got something to say? Say it!

Simply enter your name and e-mail address, and you'll receive an email confirming your comment and issuing you a password. Use that password, and you're good to go.

If you already have an AOL/AIM screenname, log in under the other tabs.

Happy commenting, and keep it classy.

Members enter your username and password.

Enter your AOL or AIM screenname and password.

ADVERTISEMENT

STAY IN THE LOOP!

Most Popular

 
 
WATCH: We Find The Real Difference Between LA & NY Street Style
Like

7

First Woman To Command A Warship In Royal Navy History
Like

338

C.Z. Guest's Unusual White Accessory
Like

13

'American Idol' Changes Record Contract Policy: Runner-Up No Longer Guaranteed Major Bucks
Like

121

The Richest Woman in the World: How Gina Rinehart Earns her Billions
Like

1K

When Jenny Was Still From The Block
Like

7

America's 10 Highest-Paid CEOs of 2011 (and How They Earned It)
Like

886

What Happened When Alex Kenjeev Paid His Student Loan in Cash
Like

2K

Look Of The Day: Solange Gets Garden Party-Ready
Like

10

Samsung Galaxy S III review
Like

2K

Country Star Yearbook Pics
Like

55

Carrie Fisher's All Tied Up
Like

0

Carrie Underwood's Grunge Rock Past: 'I Was All About Pearl Jam'
Like

140

Hawkeye and the Blue Ear Help a Mother and Her Hearing Impaired Son
Like

2K

Your Grandma Could Rock A Bikini
Like

0

Safeway Worker Stops Man From Beating Pregnant Woman, Gets Suspended
Like

346

Hot on Facebook

 
 
8 Foods That Can Be Used As Beauty Products
When Jenny Was Still From The Block
Stevie Nicks' Truly Epic Outfits Through The Years
20 Groan-Worthy Celebrity Style Moments This Week
Dear Victoria's Secret: Don't Become The Next Frederick's Of Hollywood
C.Z. Guest's Unusual White Accessory

MORE ON Stylelist

Outdoor Decor
Inspiration Create A Getaway Feel For Your Backyard, Patio Or Balcony
City Gardening
Gardening and Landscapes Tips For Growing A Garden In A City
Room Makeover
Know-How 3 Life-Changing Room Makeovers
Weekend Diys
DIY Weekend DIY Ideas: 8 Ways To Fix Up Your Home In 2 Days Or Less (PHOTOS)
Ray And The Ro Ksubi
Stylelist Network Ksubi 'Bad Sports' Lookbook: From The Stylelist Network
Memorial Day Sales
Projects Memorial Day Sales 2012: Home Decor And Outdoor Furniture Sales At Macy's, Sears, Home Depot And More (PHOTOS)

SITES WE LOVE

Denim Dossier: The 20 Best Jeans For Summer

10 Cheap-Chic Pieces To Transform Your Closet

Eddie The Gun's Favorite '80s Accessory? Her Pup

PHOTOS: Nicole Scherzinger Almost Reveals Too Much

Tommy Smythe, Sarah Richardson's Sidekick, Gives Us His Top 5 Design Tips

Sexiest Fashion Week Ever?

Carine Roitfeld, Janet Jackson, Karl Lagerfeld, and More at Last Night’s amfAR Gala in Cannes

Natalia Vodianova Was Royal in Blue

Cathy Horyn Deems Mickey Drexler’s Life ‘Not the Stuff of Novels’

Scrub Down: Hadali Detoxifying Body Scrub

Dressed In White: Sophie Theallet Sea Island White Cotton Gown

Patriotic Purse: Edie Parker Red, White and Blue Jean Clutch

Heat It Up: 5 Cool Outfits Inspired by Our Favorite Summer Movies

One Awesome Thing: A Swimsuit to Make You Feel Like a Bond Girl

Look of the Day: Leopard Meets Brights

Kim Kardashian a Kopy Kat?

Priscilla Chan’s Wedding Secret

Mozart Meets the Future

EVEN MORE ON Stylelist

Design
Clean Home
Beauty
Home Design
Hair Highlights
Beauty Basics
 
  • Terms of Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Trademarks
  • Advertise
  • About Our Ads
  • Get AOL
 
 
© 2012 AOL Inc. All Rights Reserved