Anti-trafficking and anti-slavery education and awareness events are becoming commonplace. At these events, survivors of slavery and human trafficking are sometimes asked to participate as a speaker or a panelist. Survivor participation is often limited to telling the worst experiences of their traumas. They also face boundary violations emotionally and physically, such as inappropriate touching. When that happens, there is little to no way for survivors to immediately assert that boundaries were violated because they may be on-stage and fearful of the power dynamics at play. Also, there is rarely any accountability of individuals or remediation of the problem available after these events.
The solution
We are asking individuals and organizations to sign on to this pledge and to make a commitment to creating safe and ethical interactions with survivors at all events. Signing this pledge also means that you are open to being held accountable for each item listed in the pledge sign-up box.
This pledge comes directly from survivors and may be used as part of contractual agreements when survivors agree to participate in events.
Angie G.,
Ali K.,
Amber L.,
Nipa N.,
Maheshwor N.,
Sarah S.,
Freedom United is interested in hearing from our community and welcomes relevant, informed comments, advice, and insights that advance the conversation around our campaigns and advocacy. We value inclusivity and respect within our community. To be approved, your comments should be civil.
Great initiative.
As a survivor Leader, this is HUGE! I have worked in the movement for 10 yrs.I have told my story, taken pictures with the “important” people as they smile proudly that they “know” a survivor. despite what I have contributed including developing sustainable treatment options for survivors of HT that are trauma-informed and survivor-led. I have worked hard, I am ok to parade around and show off but not good enough to get paid for my work. this is so important and aligns with my beliefs I AM IN!
I will fully participate
In Survivor led advocacy we want to focus on the healing and empowering of survivors not trigger them nor exploit them in having them share the hurtful details of their past.
I will try my best to follow the rules as a survivor and leader to avoid any of harm to other survivors