The Shocking Link Between Human Trafficking and Intergenerational Trauma

ACEs Matter - PROTECTIVE FACTORS BY akshatha

An oversimplified way of restating Sex Trafficking: Sex work is a means to an end. A way of survival when the systems and 'family of origin' has failed.
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Human trafficking and intergenerational trauma are two topics that seem distantly related but are more closely intertwined than you may believe. This article will discuss the common connections between intergenerational trauma and human trafficking, as well as what you can do to support those who are impacted by these problems, whether they be you or someone else.

Check out our latest interview with the Founder of ACEs Matter, Cendie Stanford and Julie Chapus, discussing the topic.
https://youtu.be/jl_P26ihN_c?si=t7CSLPVtOy54htPX

What is Human Trafficking?According to the U.S. Department of Justice, human trafficking is defined as “a crime that involves compelling or coercing a person to provide labor or services, or to engage in commercial sex acts.” Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery that violates the human rights and dignity of millions of people around the world.

There are no defining characteristics of a victim of human trafficking since it can happen to anyone, regardless of their background or gender. However, some factors that can increase the risk of being trafficked include:

• Having experience with the law, such as being arrested, detained, or deported (ACEs)
• Being vulnerable, such as being homeless, poor, or addicted to drugs or alcohol (ACEs)
• Belonging to a minority group, such as being a person of color, LGBTQ+, or an immigrant (ACEs)
• Having recently immigrated to the U.S., especially without proper documentation or support (ACEs)

The U.S. DOJ is working to eradicate human trafficking through various initiatives, such as:

• Conducting investigations and prosecutions of human traffickers and their networks
• Providing services and support for victims and survivors of human trafficking, such as shelter, counseling, medical care, and legal assistance
• Offering training and education for law enforcement, health care, social service, and other professionals who may encounter human trafficking situations
• Implementing enforcement and outreach strategies to prevent and deter human trafficking, such as raising awareness, strengthening partnerships, and enhancing coordination

You can learn more about human trafficking and how to report it on the U.S. DOJ website.
What is Intergenerational Trauma?Intergenerational trauma is defined as trauma that has a ripple effect on generations, according to Evan Starkman of WebMD.com. Starkman writes that intergenerational trauma can start with either personal trauma, such as abuse, or trauma within a wider scope of cultural or ethnic groups, such as genocide, slavery, or colonization.

​The long-term effects of intergenerational trauma (ACEs)can include:

• Shame, anxiety, and guilt
• Vulnerability, low self-esteem, and poor self-image
• Depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal thoughts
• Substance abuse, addiction, and self-harm
• Difficulty forming and maintaining healthy relationships
• Chronic physical and mental health problems

Even though more research is needed to understand and combat intergenerational trauma, it helps to seek out the care of a licensed therapist. A therapist can work through your trauma by recommending self-care techniques, providing anger management, and helping you recognize and cope with triggers.
You can also benefit from trauma-informed care, which is an approach that acknowledges the impact of trauma on individuals and communities and provides services and support that are respectful, compassionate, and empowering. Trauma-informed care can be found in various settings, such as health care, education, social service, and justice.

You can learn more about intergenerational trauma and how to find help on the WebMD website.
How are Human Trafficking and Intergenerational Trauma Connected?Human trafficking and intergenerational trauma can coexist, namely with vulnerability. People who have experienced or inherited trauma may be more vulnerable to being trafficked, as they may lack the resources, support, and self-esteem to protect themselves from exploitation.

Conversely, people who have been trafficked may experience or pass on trauma to their children or future generations, as they may struggle with the physical, emotional, and psychological consequences of their ordeal.
Therefore, it is important to address both human trafficking and intergenerational trauma with a holistic and integrated approach that considers the individual and collective needs and strengths of the affected people and communities. Some of the ways to do this include:

• Providing trauma-informed care that is sensitive, respectful, and empowering
• Offering education and awareness on human trafficking and intergenerational trauma, and how to prevent and report them
• Creating and supporting programs and policies that protect and empower victims and survivors of human trafficking and intergenerational trauma and hold perpetrators accountable
• Building and strengthening networks and partnerships among various stakeholders, such as government, law enforcement, health care, social service, education, and civil society
• Promoting and fostering resilience, healing, and hope among people and communities affected by human trafficking and intergenerational trauma

​How Can You Help Yourself or Others Who Are Affected by Human Trafficking and Intergenerational Trauma?You are not alone if you or someone you know is a victim of intergenerational trauma and human trafficking. There are many resources and options available to help you or others who need assistance. Some of the things you can do include:

• Seeking professional help from a licensed therapist, counselor, or social worker who can provide you with the appropriate care and support
• Contacting a hotline or a helpline, such as the National Human Trafficking Hotline or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which can offer you confidential and free assistance, 24/7
• Reaching out to a local organization or a program, such as ACEs Matter, which can provide you with education, advocacy, and training services
• Exploring your interests and passions, such as art, music, sports, or hobbies that can help you express yourself, cope with stress, and find joy and meaning in life
• Taking care of yourself, physically, mentally, and spiritually, by eating well, sleeping well, exercising regularly, meditating, praying, or doing whatever makes you feel good and healthy

How Can You Learn More About Human Trafficking and Intergenerational Trauma?If you want to learn more about human trafficking and intergenerational trauma, there are many sources of information and inspiration that you can access. Some of the things you can do include:

• Reading books, articles, blogs, or reports, such as The Body Keeps the Score.

• Watching videos, documentaries, movies, or shows, such as TEDx Talks, I Am Jane Doe, or Unbelievable
• Listening to podcasts, audiobooks, music, or radio, such as The Trauma Therapist, The Sun Does Shine, or Freedom United Radio
• Following social media accounts, influencers, or hashtags, such as @acesmatter

How Can You Support Human Trafficking and Intergenerational Trauma Initiatives?If you want to support human trafficking and intergenerational trauma initiatives, there are many ways you can get involved and make a difference. Some of the things you can do include:

• Donating money, goods, or services to organizations or programs that work to prevent, combat, and heal human trafficking and intergenerational trauma, such as ACEs Matter.
• Volunteering your time, skills, or expertise to organizations or programs that work to prevent, combat, and heal human trafficking and intergenerational trauma, such as ACEs Matter.
• Advocating for policies and legislation that protect and empower victims and survivors of human trafficking and intergenerational trauma and hold perpetrators accountable, such as ACEs Matter.
• Raising awareness and educating yourself and others on human trafficking and intergenerational trauma and how to prevent and report them, such as through ACEs Matter.
• Supporting and empowering yourself and others who are affected by human trafficking and intergenerational trauma by offering compassion, empathy, and hope, such as ACEs Matter, Polaris, or Miss Julie's School of Beauty

​Human trafficking and intergenerational trauma are serious and complex issues that affect millions of people and communities around the world. 

However, there is also hope and possibility for change and healing.
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By learning more about these issues and taking action to help yourself or others, you can be part of the solution and make a positive impact in the world.