VSC Podcast Episode 42 - Human Trafficking Awareness Day - a podcast by Victim Service Center

January 11th, 2021 was Human Trafficking Awareness Day and in an effort to uplift education and discussion around this important topic, the VSC hosted a live panel discussion with 4 amazing experts and professionals in the field. Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with USF’s Dr. Sandra Stone, VSC speaker’s bureau member Savannah Parvu, United Abolitionists’ Tomas J. Lares, and VSC’s Johnnie Kramer to chat about different types of Human Trafficking, why it is so prevalent in Orlando, signs to look out for, and ways we can help victims and survivors.

Dr. Sandra Stone uses she/her pronouns and is a professor in the Criminology Department and an Assistant Dean of Graduate Studies at the University of South Florida's Sarasota-Manatee Campus. Her research interests include juvenile delinquency/juvenile justice, family violence, women and crime, public policy, and program evaluation.

Savannah Parvu uses she/her pronouns and has a passion for writing and speaking about the Hope she has found after many years of abuse. She is involved in Survivor Leadership through active prevention and awareness activities.

Tomas J. Lares uses he/him pronouns and is the Founder/President of United Abolitionists, Inc. formerly Florida Abolitionist, Inc. In 2004, Lares became aware of the crime of human trafficking and began his advocacy. Lares was instrumental in creating a 24-hour Human Trafficking Hotline and for advocating Orange County Government to fund an adult female short-term 24-hour facility.

Johnnie Kramer is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the State of Florida. He received his Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Central Florida, specializing in the treatment of trauma for both individuals and families.

You can view a recording of the live panel on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/jaQTRlog3Ls

You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

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Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. You can also contact the United Abolitionists Hotline at 1(833) 9-STOP-HT (or 1 833 978 6748) or the National Human Trafficking Helpline at 1 888 373 7888 to get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.

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