A New Year, a Renewed Focus on Safety and Justice

Unmasking the Shadows: January is Human Trafficking & Stalking Awareness Month

As we embark on 2024, I can’t help but feel a surge of hope and determination. And while January holds many observances, two stand out with urgent importance: the fight against human trafficking and stalking.

These forms of violence, sadly, are not isolated occurrences. They impact countless individuals, families, and communities each and every day. The sheer scale of the problem, and the ripple effect it creates, demands our unwavering attention and action.

As a Certified Domestic Violence Counselor, Survivor, and Advocate, I feel a profound responsibility to raise awareness and amplify the voices of those affected, especially Black women who face disproportionate risks and challenges.

This is not just about statistics and numbers. It’s about the lived experiences of individuals who have been robbed of their safety, dignity, and sense of peace. It’s about the children who witness and are impacted by this violence. It’s about the families torn apart and communities scarred.

But amidst the darkness, there is light. The movement for justice and healing is growing stronger every day. Survivors are speaking out, advocating for change, and empowering others. And there are countless individuals, like you and me, who can choose to stand with them, offer support, and demand a world free from violence.

Let’s use this year as an opportunity to amplify awareness, support survivor-centered initiatives, and advocate for policies that protect and empower those at risk. Let’s be a force for change, a beacon of hope, and a voice for the voiceless. Together, we can build a future where safety, dignity, and justice are not privileges but fundamental rights for all.

January casts a stark light on two often intertwined shadows: human trafficking and stalking. This month, as we strive to raise awareness, it’s crucial to recognize how these insidious threats disproportionately impact Black women. By delving into the stark statistics and amplifying the lived experiences, we can pave the way for a future where every woman walks free from fear.

The Grim Reality:

Human trafficking: Black women and girls are 3 times more likely to be trafficked for sex trafficking than white women. They also hold a disproportionate representation within forced labor and domestic servitude.
Stalking: According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 42% of Black women have experienced stalking in their lifetime, compared to 24% of white women.

The Intertwined Web:

While distinct forms of victimization, human trafficking and stalking often share a common thread: control. Traffickers and stalkers exploit vulnerabilities, manipulate fears, and isolate their victims, often targeting those marginalized due to race, class, or gender.

Black Women on the Frontlines:

Black women play a pivotal role in combating these injustices. From grassroots organizations like Black Girls Matter to advocacy groups like The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Black women are leading the charge for change. They are building safe spaces, amplifying victim voices, and pushing for policy reforms that prioritize protection and prevention.

Beyond Statistics: The Human Cost:

The statistics paint a grim picture, but they barely scratch the surface of the human cost. The trauma inflicted by human trafficking and stalking is profound, leaving lasting scars on mental and physical health. Victims face not only the immediate dangers but also the long-term struggle to rebuild their lives, often navigating broken systems and inadequate support.

Shining a Light: The Path Forward:

January may be Human Trafficking and Stalking Awareness Month, but vigilance is essential year-round. Here’s how we can all contribute:

Educate ourselves: Understanding the tactics used by traffickers and stalkers empowers us to recognize and report potential cases.
Believe survivors: Listen without judgment and support survivors in accessing the resources they need.
Advocate for change: Push for policies that prioritize prevention, victim protection, and perpetrator accountability.
Amplify Black voices: Center the experiences and expertise of Black women leading the fight against these injustices.

A Call to Action:

Human trafficking and stalking are not shadows we can simply ignore. By acknowledging the disproportionate impact on Black women, amplifying their voices, and taking concrete action, we can illuminate the path towards a future where every woman walks free from the grip of fear and exploitation. It’s time to shine a light on the shadows and pave the way for a future where all women can truly claim their freedom.

Reach out to your local domestic violence or sexual violence program, or contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “BeFree” to 233733. To report suspected human trafficking to federal authorities, contact the U.S. Department of Homeland Security at 1-888-347-2423.

National Domestic Violence Hotline Hours: 24/7. Languages: English, Spanish and 200+ through interpretation service: 800-799-7233

Other resources: https://www.empowerhernetwork.org | https://www.shepherddoor.org

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor
Crisis Text Line: Text “LA” to 741741
Disaster Distress Helpline: Call (800) 985-5990
Trevor Project Lifeline: Call (800) 788-7386
Substance Abuse Service Helpline: Call (844) 804-7500
SAMHSA’s National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential information and treatment referrals
California Peer-Run Warmline: Call or text 1-800-845-6264

I’m Teanna LaNise, your new Personal & Professional Success Coach. My passion is working with individuals that have a passion to serve. I am a Medi-Cal Certified Peer Support Specialist, Certified Domestic Violence Counselor, Advocate and Trainer that uses trauma-informed care to support individuals 1-on-1 or in group settings navigate through this journey called life while providing resources and linkages to services along the way.

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