Pedro Hernandez, better known as “Gator,” is the president of Bikers Against Trafficking Virginia. He grew up in Florida, the youngest of four siblings. Hernandez’s parents moved the family from New Jersey in 2002, hoping for a better life and more opportunities. Throughout his school years, he was involved in baseball and the youth ministry, working to make a difference in the lives of young people and keep them off the streets.
After graduating high school, Hernandez continued to be involved in the community, volunteering with organizations that helped those in need. In 2018, he moved to Virginia with his fiancé, who is now his wife, and her family. It was here that Hernandez saw a need for an organization dedicated to combating sex trafficking.
Hernandez’s parents had been involved with Bikers Against Trafficking in Florida, an organization started in 2016 by two individuals who had been trafficked themselves and wanted to help those still trapped in a life of sex trafficking. The organization quickly grew, with chapters all over the US and in Canada.
“My parents joined a chapter in 2017 in Florida. When I moved to Virginia, I felt there was a need for an organization here,” Hernandez said. He started the Virginia chapter and wanted it to be more than a motorcycle club. “I envisioned an organization that would help the community while helping international in eliminating sex trafficking.”
Hernandez sees the mission of Bikers Against Trafficking as existing to “eradicate human sex trafficking & restore those affected through building awareness, clinical trauma counseling via F4T, job placement, housing assistance, and mentoring. We also provide addiction counseling via F4T.”
The Virginia chapter holds two annual rides a year and bike nights to raise awareness and funds to promote its mission. They also speak at schools, churches, and local community organizations to spread their message and educate others about the dangers of sex trafficking. “Whatever we can do to spread awareness,” Hernandez added. “We do everything through donations.”
Hernandez and his team are dedicated to being the voice of those who don’t have one and providing a safe house for individuals to heal. Their goal is to make a difference in Virginia and around the world, one ride, one event, and one donation at a time.
Through his work with Bikers Against Trafficking, Hernandez has become a leader in our community, inspiring others to get involved and make a difference. He is passionate about helping those in need and is committed to making the world a better place.
Hernandez’s story is a testament to the power of one person to make a difference. By taking action and starting a chapter of Bikers Against Trafficking in Virginia, he has helped to raise awareness about the dangers of sex trafficking and provide resources for those who have been affected by it. His work is an inspiration to others and a reminder that anyone can make a difference if they will take a stand.