Held in bondage against their own will.  Trapped in a foreign country and forced to perform sexual acts for another person’s benefit.  Modern day slavery?  In Rhode Island, it’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” and what happens behind closed doors, stays behind closed door.

Human trafficking, and it’s happening right here in Rhode Island.

Nearly 300 protesters gathered outside the State House Tuesday to ask legislators to strengthen laws cracking down on human trafficking.  Rhode Island remains the only state that allows prostitution, as long as it happens indoors.

But what happens when vulnerable individuals are forced into the system?  Many Rhode Islanders are saying this is one unique trait we shouldn’t be proud of.

Reiko Koyama has more.

This piece originally aired as part of the Brief, which airs every Monday at 11 pm.

Image courtesy flickr user mvcorks.