This presentation shares findings from a collaborative research initiative led by the Global Association of Human Trafficking Scholars (GAHTS) Survivor Research Group examining the complex experiences of survivor leaders in the anti-trafficking movement. This mixed-methods approach includes survey data from 87 survivor leaders across 4 continents and in-depth qualitative interviews with a diverse subset of participants, specifically designed to capture often-overlooked perspectives including male survivors and labor trafficking survivors. The preliminary findings reveal concerning patterns: 79% of survivor leaders report experiencing tokenization at least occasionally, nearly 90% face exploitation or unfair compensation, and 89% report being treated as less competent despite their expertise. The qualitative interview phase explored these challenges in greater depth while identifying promising practices for meaningful inclusion. This survivor-led research initiative is uniquely positioned to provide insights into effective organizational relationships, financial sustainability, and professional development pathways for survivor leaders. Presenters will share emerging themes from the interviews regarding how organizations can move beyond performative inclusion to authentic collaboration, highlighting concrete recommendations for researchers, organizations, and policymakers committed to addressing power imbalances. Finally, the presenters will provide evidence-based recommendations that center survivor voices and experiences in developing best practices for the field.
Trigger Warning: This presentation contains information (written, spoken, or visual) that may be triggering or (re)traumatizing to attendees.
Mike Chapman, a Recovery Life Coach and Brainspotting Provider residing in Coastal North Carolina, is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, family-controlled sex trafficking, and clergy sexual assault. He is also a member of the Speakers Bureau with Survivor Network North Carolina and a podcast host interviewing abuse and trafficking survivors.
Helen Stiver is the U.S. Programs Coordinator at EverFree, managing anti-trafficking partnerships focused on prevention and aftercare. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Services and has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 18 years, focusing on disability accessibility. Combining her professional and lived experience, she strives to advance the presence of survivor leadership.
Jarrett Davis is a senior researcher and co-developer of the up! Collective, specializing in analyzing root causes of violence and exploitation. As a senior research scholar with GAHTS, he develops community-centered research and evidence-based approaches for trafficking prevention, with recent work focusing on application of new technologies to qualitative analysis and ethical implementation in anti-trafficking research.