Safeguarding Our Children from Human Trafficking: Using Culture as A Protective and Healing Influence Among Native Youth

Historical trauma and current risk factors make Indigenous people vulnerable to many forms of crime victimization, including labor and sex trafficking. Additionally, higher percentages of American Indian and Alaska Native children are living in poverty, involved in the juvenile justice system, and the foster care system, increasing their vulnerability to human trafficking. During this conversation, American Indian, Alaska Native, and Samoan panelists discuss the intersection between child welfare, human trafficking, and vulnerability to exploitation. They also discussed the impact of historical trauma and how to effectively use culture as a protective and healing factor.