The purpose of this study is to help survivors of human trafficking, who so desire, break the silence and give voice to their stories of trafficking and surviving in order to educate the public about trafficking, help service providers improve current advocacy/assistance programs available to and help protect others who are at risk of being trafficked. There is a need for the creation of protected spaces for victims and survivors of trafficking where those who choose to break the silence feel safe and for those who choose to keep silent to be nurtured. It is through these stories that we can identify some of the conditions that lead to trafficking, thereby, helping us to disrupt the pattern of slavery and combat the problem. In addition, hearing from survivors helps improve aftercare services based on their specific needs reducing the possibility of re-victimization and victim blaming which marginalize the victim/survivor making recovery even more difficult. The research paradigm used in this study is the qualitative approach utilizing a narrative study and an advocacy/participatory worldview by conducting a holistic interview process with research participants. Data was collected over six months and included individual interviews and field notes from anti-human trafficking campaign conferences.
