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A Critical Look at Human Trafficking and the Anti-Trafficking Movement
The rise of the anti-trafficking movement has a compelling history that intersects with issues such as racism, homophobia, transphobia, poverty, immigration, and various policies. Despite this complexity, the media often portrays human trafficking in a simplistic manner, emphasizing rescue and saviorism. In this presentation, we will explore the evolution of the human trafficking movement, applying a critical race theory lens to better understand its dynamics. Additionally, we will discuss the role that lawyers entering this movement can play in supporting survivors of trafficking, providing insights on navigating this multifaceted field.
Erika Gonzalez currently serves as the Training and Technical Assistance Managing Attorney at the Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking (CAST) in Los Angeles, CA. Recognized as a national expert in legal remedies for human trafficking survivors, she played a pivotal role in co-founding and leading the Office for Victims of Crime's inaugural training and technical assistance program dedicated to aiding survivors at CAST since 2015. This initiative conducts nationwide training for professionals, covering immigration, victims' rights, criminal record relief, and ethical considerations from a race equity and trauma-informed lens.
Prior to her role at CAST, Erika directed the low-bono immigration program at Opening Doors, Inc. in Sacramento. Focused on assisting crime victims with immigration relief, she specialized in working with survivors of human trafficking. Erika served as a staff attorney at both CAST and Opening Doors, representing survivors in immigration, criminal victims' rights, and criminal record relief matters.
Please contact Nina Bell at nbell@ucdavis.edu with any questions.