April 10, 2014: The Graduate Victimology Program at Algonquin College partnered with the Ottawa Police Service,Victim Crisis Unit, PACT-Ottawa and St. Joe’s Women’s Centre, to host a workshop followed by panel presentations plus a presentation from a local survivor of human trafficking as part of National Victims of Crime Awareness Week 2014.
Titled “Not for Sale: Mobilizing Our Community to Support Victims of Human Trafficking”, the keynote speaker was Jamaican-born psychologist Jacqui Linder, nationally acclaimed for her research and experience on human trafficking . The speakers and panelists addressed issues such as victim’s rights, sudden and traumatic loss, diverse victim populations, the impact of crime and the criminal justice system on victims, profiles of typical human trafficking victims, and strategies for prevention. Panelists emphasized that victims of sex trafficking are often lured by promises of a better life; instead, once they are hooked, they end being cruelly exploited and abused. Panelists included: Melodie West of the Victim Witness Assistance program; Farah Rupert, Assistant Crown Attorney; Elise Wohlbold, Manager of Project IMPACT; Marsha Wislon, Director of St. Joe’s Women’s Centre; Uday Jaswell, Superintendent with Ottawa Police Service; and Paul Johnston, Inspector with Ottawa Police Service. The most moving presentation was by a recent victim and survivor of human trafficking in Ottawa who gave a powerful testimony to the anguish of being coerced into the sex trade by a heartless pimp. Listening intently in the audience was Lucya Spencer, Executive Director of Immigrant Women Service Ottawa, an agency that provides support and assistance to immigrant women and children fleeing violence and abuse.
Victims of crime such as human trafficking, can call 2-1-1 to receive referrals to victim support organisations and services. This service which is available 24/7, includes connection to support groups or organisations, legal services and support and access to appropriate counselling.
