A Multifaceted Approach
Sex trafficking is a complex problem requiring a multifaceted solution. Breaking Free’s response is comprehensive: addressing the immediate needs of victims, as well as implementing the following strategies for long-term social change:
- Raising public awareness about the realities of the issue, the propensity of the demand in this state, and the conditions in which the victims are forced to live;
- Increasing victim identification through education of first responders, law enforcement and the judicial system;
- Providing strategies for intervention and prevention along with resources and access to services for victims;
- Advising on legislative proposals and advocating for changes to legislation that will protect victims while increasing fines and penalties for perpetrators who buy and sell women and children for sex; and finally,
- Engaging the community in large-scale awareness events, including our Candlelight Vigil, Benefit Breakfast, and the semi-annual Demand Change Project.
Prevention, not just intervention, is necessary for social change.
We must stop the victimization before it starts.
