New knowledge network working to increase education and awareness of human trafficking in Nipissing region
NORTH BAY (October 31, 2019)– The Nipissing Human Trafficking Knowledge Network, consisting of anti-human trafficking stakeholders from North Bay and the surrounding area, hosted its first official gathering on the morning of October 30 at Nipissing University.
This inaugural meeting was held to welcome members, provide an overview of human trafficking issues impacting the Nipissing region, review the network’s establishing documents, and discuss next steps.
“Human trafficking is a crime that exploits women, children and men for numerous purposes, including sex,” said Kathleen Jodouin, Executive Director of Victim Services of Nipissing District. “We need to increase education and raise awareness of this issue that’s happening in our own backyards. Traffickers continue to target women and girls. As community stakeholders, we advocate for prevention strategies, educational messages, safety responses, and awareness initiatives. Our goal is to eradicate human trafficking, and ensure survivors are safe and thriving in the Nipissing region.”
In 2013, Nipissing University, Amelia Rising Sexual Assault Centre of Nipissing, the Anishinabek Nation, and the AIDS Committee of North Bay and Area, came together to establish the Northeastern Ontario Research Alliance on Human Trafficking, also known as NORAHT. Over the past six years, the alliance has conducted research and community engagement sessions to gain a better understanding of human trafficking in Northeastern Ontario. They have also started identifying service gaps and barriers for individuals who have been trafficked.
“Through the Nipissing Human Trafficking Knowledge Network, we would like to see the community of Nipissing have the capacity, resources, knowledge and cultural competency to support those who have experienced human trafficking, and to prevent future individuals from being trafficked.”
The network will meet again on November 20, 2019. All meetings of the NHTKN are open to those with lived experience, and those who support sex workers and individuals who have been trafficked.
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Associated Links:
For more information, contact:
Kathleen Jodouin, Executive Director
Victim Services of Nipissing District
Phone: 705-472-2649
Email: ed@vianet.ca
Rebecca Timms, MMIW Coordinator
Anishinabek Nation
Phone: 705-497-9127 x2272
Email: rebecca.timms@anishinabek.ca