Sex Trafficking is Not a Conspiracy Theory

By Tanya Pearrell

“Sex Trafficking is not a conspiracy theory!”

If you have been on any type of social media over the last several years you have no doubt seen this shared. And it is true – sex trafficking is not a conspiracy theory. But, unfortunately, there are many conspiracy theories being shared. 

I am in no way trying to judge or shame anyone. When I was first learning about trafficking, I was inclined to share what I saw without really researching. I was horrified to think that this was happening and wanted everyone to know. As I have become more educated I have realized that often what I was sharing was a sensationalized version of what was/is actually happening. In reality, it did more harm than good.

Harm?!? How so?!? Instead of being more aware of what my daughter was doing online, I was hesitant to let her go anywhere alone. Instead of being careful about what I myself put online, I was checking for markings on my car. And because of this, I was actually increasing vulnerability. 

And therein lies the issue with the things we see floating around the internet. We miss the majority of those being trafficked. We open ourselves and others up to potential exploiters. We risk re-traumatizing those that have been affected and are healing. Over 90% of survivors were groomed and trafficked by someone they trusted. If all they see floating around are stories about little girls being kidnapped off the street they can feel as though they did something wrong. That their story isn’t important or true.  And that is the last thing any of us want to convey to someone that has taken the courageous steps of healing.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

If I could ask one thing of you it would be this – trust those that are doing the work. If you see something and you aren’t sure if it’s true, ask those people. Take the initiative to educate yourself. When they share information, don’t argue with them. They are dedicating themselves to this work. They are in the thick of it, day in and day out. They are walking with survivors. They are continuing to learn with every interaction. And they love to provide education and understanding.

If you would like to host a small group awareness event, please reach out. We would love to share and answer your questions!