Human Trafficking: Soroptimists Making a Difference

Written By Andrea Peet


The Journey Film Screening

Hosted by Soroptimist of Borrego Springs

Soroptimist of Borrego Springs hosted a community screening of The Journey on January 28 at the Borrego Springs High School Community Room. Seats were filled for the well-attended event, which brought together men and women from across the Borrego Valley for an evening focused on education, awareness, and dialogue surrounding human trafficking.

Presented by DOC Land Films, The Journey centers on survivor-led stories and follows the lived experiences of three survivors. The documentary focuses on recovery, personal strength, and the realities of human trafficking, offering a human-centered perspective intended to inform and educate without sensationalizing the subject.

The program opened with introductions and context provided by Amanda Schneider, Executive Director of Amplify Voices, who framed the importance of survivor-led storytelling and community awareness. Following the screening, attendees participated in an extended question-and-answer session.

The discussion and Q&A were led by Keelin Washington, Senior Director of Programs and Public Speaker with GenerateHope, a San Diego–based nonprofit organization that provides long-term, restorative housing and trauma-informed care for survivors of sex trafficking. The conversation prompted thoughtful questions and reflection on prevention, awareness, and how communities can better understand and respond to this issue.

“You may choose to look the other way but you can never say again that you did not know,” - William Wilberforce

The screening was hosted by Soroptimist of Borrego Springs in partnership with Borrego Springs High School. Creating opportunities for education, discussion, and awareness on issues affecting women and girls is central to the organization’s mission. The event underscored the value of providing respectful local spaces where community members can learn, ask questions, and engage in meaningful conversation before and after formal programming.


How Soroptimist International Supports Survivors and Fights for Change

Human trafficking is a devastating crime that affects millions of individuals worldwide, with women and girls disproportionately impacted. It’s often referred to as modern-day slavery, encompassing forced labor, sexual exploitation, and other forms of abuse. As one of the largest criminal enterprises globally, human trafficking exploits vulnerabilities like poverty, lack of education, and inequality.

For Soroptimist International of Borrego Springs, fighting human trafficking is not just a mission; it’s a responsibility. Soroptimists recognize that education and empowerment are critical tools in addressing the root causes of trafficking and helping survivors rebuild their lives.

Understanding the Impact of Trafficking

Victims of trafficking often experience manipulation, coercion, and abuse—sometimes at the hands of people they know and trust. Traffickers prey on vulnerabilities, targeting individuals facing poverty, homelessness, or displacement. The trauma of trafficking can leave lasting scars, making recovery a challenging process.

Statistics highlight the urgent need for action:

  • For every 10 identified victims of trafficking, five are adult women, and two are girls.

  • Globally, an estimated 28 to 50 million individuals are trafficked, though the true numbers remain unknown.

Despite these daunting figures, Soroptimist clubs worldwide are determined to make a difference.

How Soroptimists Are Fighting Back

Soroptimist International, including our local Borrego Springs chapter, takes a multifaceted approach to combat human trafficking. Our efforts include:

  • Raising Awareness: January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and Soroptimists work to educate the public about this critical issue. We share information, host events, and encourage our community to recognize the signs of trafficking.

  • Empowering Survivors Through Education: Education is key to breaking the cycle of exploitation. Soroptimist programs, such as the Live Your Dream Awards, provide financial support to women pursuing higher education, giving survivors a pathway to independence and stability.

  • Advocating for Change: Soroptimist International advocates globally for stronger protections for trafficking victims and survivors. By working with local and international organizations, we amplify the voices of those who have been impacted.

  • Providing Local Support: Here in Borrego Springs, our club focuses on initiatives that promote access to education and economic empowerment for women and girls. These efforts help reduce vulnerabilities that traffickers often exploit.

How You Can Help

The fight against human trafficking requires all of us. Here’s how you can get involved:

  • Learn more about the signs of trafficking and share this knowledge with others.

  • Support Soroptimist programs that provide education and resources for survivors.

  • Use your voice to advocate for policies that protect victims and hold traffickers accountable.

Helpful Resources

For immediate assistance, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline by:

International Organizations:

Government and Legal Resources:

Educational Resources:

By working together, we can make a tangible impact in the fight against human trafficking and support survivors on their path to recovery.

Visit National Human Trafficking Hotline website to get statistics specific to human trafficking.

 

Key U.S. Legislation on Human Trafficking

Modern U.S. efforts to combat human trafficking stem from the 13th Amendment (1865), which abolished slavery and involuntary servitude. Early cases were prosecuted under limited federal statutes, but since 2000, Congress has passed comprehensive laws to enhance the fight against trafficking. Below are significant legislative milestones:

  • Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000: The cornerstone of modern anti-trafficking laws, it established prevention, protection, and prosecution measures.

  • Reauthorization Acts (2003, 2005, 2008, 2013, 2017): Expanded the TVPA, increasing protections, victim services, and international collaboration.

  • Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (2015): Enhanced penalties for traffickers and created funds for victim assistance.

  • Frederick Douglass Act (2018): Strengthened prevention and protection measures while honoring anti-slavery pioneer Frederick Douglass.

These laws reflect the U.S. government’s commitment to eradicating trafficking through comprehensive legal frameworks.

Andrea Peet
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