WASHINGTON, D.C. — Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) has officially opened the nomination window for the 2026 Harriet Tubman Award, an annual recognition supported by WEX that honors industry professionals who take direct action against human trafficking. This award highlights the vital role that drivers and logistics personnel play in identifying and reporting exploitation while out on the road.

The trucking industry serves as the eyes and ears of the nation’s highways, making it a primary front in the fight against modern-day slavery. Since the award's inception in 2013, it has celebrated individuals who moved past the bystander effect to intervene in suspicious situations. Named after the legendary abolitionist who led dozens to freedom via the Underground Railroad, the honor aims to spotlight the bravery required to disrupt trafficking networks that often utilize the nation's rest stops and travel centers.

Eligible nominees must reside in the United States or Canada, with the associated incident occurring within those borders. The recipient of the award will be granted a $5,000 cash prize along with a commemorative trophy. Laura Cyrus, senior director of Industry Training and Outreach at TAT, encourages anyone who has intervened to step forward, noting that even seemingly minor actions contribute to a culture of vigilance. Companies looking to identify potential candidates can request an internal survey from the organization by emailing their staff directly, which can be deployed via driver messaging systems or electronic logging devices.

What This Means for Drivers

Professional drivers are uniquely positioned to spot warning signs that others miss because they spend their lives in the environments where traffickers operate. If you are a CDL-A driver who has intervened in a situation involving potential victims, your story could serve as a powerful example to the rest of the industry. Submissions remain open through August 15, and TAT emphasizes that you do not need to be certain your action was heroic to qualify for consideration. Sharing these experiences helps other drivers understand the specific indicators of trafficking, ultimately saving lives across the freight network.

Industry Reaction

The Harriet Tubman Award has become a benchmark for social responsibility within the logistics sector. By formalizing this recognition, TAT and WEX have created a feedback loop that encourages carriers to prioritize anti-trafficking training. As more trucking companies are hiring, firms that emphasize safety and human rights often attract higher-quality talent. This initiative reinforces the professional status of the OTR truck driver as a guardian of the public interest, elevating the perception of the profession beyond simple freight movement.

Key Points

• Nominations for the 2026 Harriet Tubman Award close on August 15.
• The award includes a $5,000 cash prize and a physical trophy for the winner.
• Eligible incidents must have occurred within the United States or Canada.
• Companies can request internal surveys from TAT to help identify employees who have taken action.

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