Human Trafficking Conference
On the 26th, 27th, & 28th of September 2022 Senator Bryant Richardson held a three-day conference which focused on identifying and combating human trafficking. Organized by Senator Richardson’s Legislative Aid & WDC Secretary, Sara Poore, just under 150 invited guests were in attendance. Guests included law enforcement personnel, lawmakers, officials from Delaware’s school districts, and various state agencies.
The impacts of human trafficking are astounding and horrific. This major conference was a step in the right direction. When it comes to creating solutions and preventative policies here in the First State there is much work to be done.
Nationally renowned experts, Dr. Marian Hatcher and Dr. Stephany Powell both attended. Their presentations gave insight on how to combat sexual exploitation. Included was testimony from survivors of human trafficking. Such testimonies provided a close look at the horrors victims of human trafficking face.
As a survivor, leader and policy consultant, Dr. Marian Hatcher and Dr. Stephany Powell, the vice president and director of Law Enforcement Outreach and Training with the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, were able to provide invaluable information that led to the discussion of several suggested pieces of legislation.
Another WDC Board Member, Lisa Workman, attended in efforts to gain further insight into the issues so that we can enhance our efforts within the community to empower women to live with less fear and more freedom through training and education.
Human trafficking is often viewed as young women or children being stolen or sold and packed into shipping containers to be transported across the country or overseas. Realistically, trafficking hits a bit closer to home. It can be friends, acquaintances, or neighbors who knowingly allow strangers or other family members access to their own children or children in their care.
In Delaware we are extremely at risk due to being located along the I-95 corridor. Delaware is one of 39 states to receive an “F” rating when it comes to child and youth trafficking, according to the Shared Hope International Institute for Justice & Advocacy.
“In doing research for legislation earlier this year, it became apparent that Delaware was one of the worst states in the nation for prevention, identification and survivor care. Sara and I felt it was important to bring everyone together with experts in the field to bring about much-needed change.”
Senator Dave Lawson and Representative Charles Postles were also in attendance.
We are hopeful, with several lawmakers engaged, that change will be brought forth through legislative action as well as through education initiatives going forward.
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