For the third year, Christopher Newport University is partnering with the City of Newport News Commissioner of the Revenue's Office and Freekind to host "Operation Breakthrough," a Human Trafficking Awareness Month community event. This powerful event, held in collaboration with the Red Sand Project, raises awareness about human trafficking and modern slavery. Participants will take part in a public art installation by pouring red sand into cracks in the David Student Union Plaza sidewalks, symbolizing individuals who often go unnoticed and fall through societal gaps, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.



This event is more than just an art installation; it's a call to action. The Red Sand Project aims to shed light on the often unseen and overlooked aspects of human trafficking. 

The keynote speaker this year is Tanya Gould, the Anti-Human Trafficking Director for the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and organizations committed to fighting human trafficking will be present to share resources and strategies for taking meaningful action.

The event will be held at the David Student Union Plaza (rain location: Auxiliary Gym) on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 12:30 - 1:30 pm.