Beyond Trafficking will host its annual Human Trafficking Summit on Wednesday, July 30th, at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Abilene. The free event will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1674 Pine St.
The summit coincides with the United Nations World Day Against Trafficking in Persons and aims to equip attendees with the tools to recognize, prevent, and respond to human trafficking. Expert speakers will lead sessions focused on awareness and actionable strategies.
“In our community, education and awareness are key to addressing the challenges posed by human trafficking,” said Stephanie Rocha, executive director of Beyond Trafficking. “This summit provides a vital platform for individuals to engage, learn, and take actionable steps toward making our community a safer place.”
Time Event Details:
9:00 AM Welcome and Proclamation Opening remarks and an official proclamation by Judge Crowley.
9:15 AM Fact or Expert: An Introduction to the Ethical Role and Use of Expert Witness Presented by Margaret Bassett, LPC-S, Director at UT Austin. Discusses benchmarks for “expertise” and ethical strategies for utilizing or serving as an expert witness.
10:45 AM Break A 10-minute break to recharge.
10:55 AM Who is TDLR? Presentation by Heather Stoller, Anti-Trafficking Inspector at TDLR. Covers their inspection process, emergency orders, landlord engagement, and more.
11:25 AM Understanding Victims in Asian-Operated Illicit Massage Businesses (IMBs) Presented by Sanghee Dobson, Senior Anti-Human Trafficking Specialist at TDLR. Offers cultural insights and practical tools to address victim issues.
11:55 AM Announcements Brief updates and important announcements.
12:00 PM Lunch A 30-minute break for lunch.
12:30 PM Screening of Chained Silence Speaks Screening of the 20-minute documentary.
12:50 PM Talk by Filmmaker Edwin Rose A special presentation by Edwin Rose, discussing the making of Chained Silence Speaks.
1:05 PM Presentation by Erica Stapleton Erica Stapleton, from 12News in Phoenix, presents He Made Me Do It, exploring human trafficking and domestic violence through a high-profile case.
1:30 PM Expert Panel Q&A An in-depth discussion with panelists to address key themes from the day and audience questions.
2:00 PM Adjourn Official closing of the summit.
Note: Please arrive early for check-in. Enjoy the day packed with impactful sessions and networking opportunities.
Thanks to local sponsors, lunch will be provided free of charge for all registered participants.
Registration is available here.
More information about Beyond Trafficking can be found at beyondtrafficking.com.
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