March 25, 2024 - Harrisburg, PA
The Pennsylvania Interagency Human Trafficking Workgroup held a human trafficking advocacy day and panel at the state capitol building. Workgroup members were joined by survivors, elected officials, advocates, and law enforcement to discuss issues currently faced in the battle against human trafficking.Following the start of an informational session that included tables and displays hosted by partner organizations, the interagency group was joined by survivors and advocates to hear first-hand accounts of their stories and learn about the various ways we can improve our systems to better support healing. Speakers included Attorney General Michelle Henry, Project Protect Survivor Mentor Liz Stein, and Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission Director of Policy Ashley Walkowiak.The panel, composed of Emmy Award-winning Documentarian and Advocate Ruchira Gupta, Chief Deputy Attorney General Heather Castellino, Founder of Character: Be about It (CBAI) Matt Harris, Captain James Savage and survivor members of Project Protect's Youth Advisory Committee discussed the current challenges in combatting human trafficking. The panel was hosted by Child Advocate and Executive Director of the PA Office of Advocacy & Reform Dr. Maryann McEvoy."Expanding the alliance committed to fighting human trafficking in Pennsylvania uncovers more of these devastating crimes and strengthens the network of care for victims. After all, brave survivors who come forward and tell their stories help others from becoming victims and enable law enforcement to prosecute predators," said Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry. "This event, along with my office's recently-launched Human Trafficking Section, show there is much strength in numbers, and we look forward to continuing this fight with local, state, and federal partners."Speakers Include:Maryann McEvoy, Commonwealth Child AdvocateLiz Stein, Survivor MentorAttorney General Michelle HenryAshley Walkowiak, Director of Policy and Legislative Affairs - PHRC