KNOWLEDGE
IS POWER!!!
INTERVENTION, the recovery and restoration of those being exploited, and PREVENTION, through education and awareness training, are the foundation of worthy squared's two-prong approach in the fight against commercial sexual exploitation. Understanding the victimization and grooming process of sex trafficking and acknowledging the bondage of what is known as modern day slavery are vital to anti-trafficking efforts, and to the freedom of victims and survivors.
We offer in person, virtual, or a hybrid model of training relating to "Human Trafficking 101" with a primary focus on the intervention and prevention of commercial sexual exploitation, or sex trafficking. In these trainings, we address questions like "who is a target?", "why does trafficking happen?", "how do I know if I, or someone I know, is being groomed?", and "how can I prevent it?". We base our trainings on local case scenarios. Click the button below to request a professional speaker for your next event. REMEMBER- KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!!!
Better Together
Our strength lies not only in the words we stand by, but most importantly in the collaborative efforts with like-minded organizations, law enforcement and government agencies. Since we began our work in 2017, we have realized the importance of multi-disciplinary teams (MDTs) and that only by working together are we effective in the fight against commercial sexual exploitation, or sex trafficking. We are modern day ABOLITIONISTS fighting modern day SLAVERY- striving to make a difference in the lives of those living in bondage...walking along side them to true FREEDOM.
Who is a target?
Anyone can be trafficked-this crime does not discriminate. Potential victims are without age or gender limitations, geographical barriers, racial boundaries, educational limits, socioeconomic status limits, etc. The common denominator in a trafficking victim/survivor is VULNERABILITY. Traffickers prey on those vulnerabilities to gain control of their victim. There are certain groups who may be more likely to be targeted as victims because of shared vulnerabilities. According to one study, one of the most prevalent risk factors is a history of childhood physical or sexual abuse, neglect or maltreatment- with estimates from 60-90% of victims. In addition, runaway youth, foster care youth, and those with a history of familial mental illness or addiction are also vulnerable. It's vital that we remember each victim is unique and commonly shared vulnerabilities are not the only vulnerabilities. Anyone can be victimized.
How is the victim affected?
Traffickers are experts at identifying vulnerabilities, of manipulating reality and capitalizing on fears. This process is called GROOMING. It is methodical, intentional and it is used to exploit their victims. Some factors that can be used against someone or created to exploit include addiction, financial instability, emotional insecurity, low self esteem, peer pressure, lack of family or support systems. Many times the victim may know their trafficker. Traffickers often target victims via the Internet, especially youth, through social media or gaming platforms. They are experts at taking advantage of the trust or needs of a potential victim. Indeed, it is the most common way that people – adults and children- end up being exploited. PREVENTION, through education and awareness training, is critical to block the grooming process.
Why?
WHY HUMAN TRAFFICKING?
It is estimated to be the fastest growing industry in the world- the 2nd most profitable to drugs and exceeding guns. WHY??? BECAUSE A HUMAN BODY CAN BE SOLD OVER AND OVER AND OVER...
WHY DON'T THEY LEAVE?
The effects of physical, sexual, spiritual, emotional, social, relational, religious, verbal abuse and neglect are traumatic. Repeated, prolonged adversity causes physiological changes to the human brain known as trauma. Trauma can impair the ability to process information and cause unbalanced feelings and dysregulation of emotions. This can present in a variety of ways, such as distrust in others, self-harm, depression, social isolation, and other confusing behaviors.
TRAUMA BONDING: Victims of trafficking may be “shackled,” but in many cases the chains are not literal chains. Instead, they’re psychological chains. This bond runs deep. This typically occurs when the trafficked person has been isolated and controlled by a trafficker or other abuser, feels threatened or unable to escape, or has experienced sporadic acts of kindness from the trafficker. Although the victim may disclose the abuse, due to the trauma bond the victim also seeks comfort from the abuser.
Justice
Prosecuting trafficking cases is challenging but not impossible. In some cases, it is helpful if a victim will testify against their trafficker. Trauma informed law enforcement and legal personnel are vital to a successful prosecution. Advocates support victims/survivors as they transition into therapeutic treatment facilities and navigate other services that are often crucial to emotional, physical, spiritual, and social healing. It's important to remember that not every victim is the same, nor are their needs and experiences. We support victims/survivors as they find their own path to healing.