Why Awareness Alone Isn't Enough in the Fight Against Human Trafficking
After 14 years on the front lines, I've learned that awareness is just the beginning. Real change requires action, resources, and survivor-centered solutions.
For over a decade, I've stood alongside survivors of human trafficking and witnessed firsthand the gap between awareness and action.
We've made incredible strides in raising awareness. More people than ever can recognize the signs of trafficking. Schools, churches, and community organizations are hosting trainings. Law enforcement agencies are receiving specialized instruction.
But awareness without action is just noise.
The Awareness-Action Gap
The reality is that knowing trafficking exists doesn't stop it. We need:
- Survivor-centered programs that provide long-term, holistic recovery
- Collaboration between law enforcement, healthcare, faith communities, and nonprofits
- Resources directed toward aftercare, not just prosecution
- Lived-experience voices at the table when policies are written
What Real Action Looks Like
When I founded Rejuvenating Women (later Restored Wings), we didn't just talk about the problem. We built Nebraska's first Christ-centered residential recovery program for adult survivors. We created a ranch-based healing model for trafficked girls that integrated equine-assisted learning and trauma-informed care.
These programs worked because they addressed the whole person — physical, emotional, spiritual, and practical needs.
Your Role
You don't have to start a nonprofit to make a difference. You can:
- Support local survivor-serving organizations with your time or resources
- Advocate for policies that protect survivors and hold traffickers accountable
- Educate yourself and your community
- Listen to survivor voices and amplify them
Freedom isn't free without a voice. Be that voice.
Julie Shrader is the Founder and CEO of Innocence Freed, a nationally recognized speaker, and a survivor advocate based in Omaha, Nebraska.