From Silence to Action: My Capstone Journey on Human Trafficking Awareness

Anti Human Trafficking Website: www.standupspeakoutendhumantrafficking.com

I chose to focus my capstone project on human trafficking and sexual assault because these are issues that are both urgent and often ignored. The more I began to research late last year, the more I realized how close to home these problems really are—they’re not just happening in distant places, but right here in our own communities. Despite that, there’s still little to no open conversation about them, especially among people our age.

One story that stuck with me was about a girl supported by CAST LA, a nonprofit based in Los Angeles that helps survivors of human trafficking. CAST provides legal support, shelter, and social services, and it works to raise awareness and push for policy change. She had been trafficked as a teenager, and even after escaping, she struggled to feel safe or trust others. What stood out to me most was how much it meant to her just to be believed. That moment stayed with me and made me think about how many others go unheard or unsupported.

Initially, I wanted to create a monthly art therapy program for youth survivors. I met with CAST LA to propose the idea, and they were incredibly supportive, but scheduling conflicts made it hard to move forward. I tried again with Give Mentor Love, another organization working with vulnerable youth, but faced the same challenges.

Rather than give up, I pivoted. I created a website called Stand Up, Speak Out, End Human Trafficking, focused on education, advocacy, and survivor support. It includes:

• Real survivor stories from CAST LA’s public archive

• Warning signs and myths about trafficking

• A list of resources for anyone looking for help or wanting to get involved

• Blog posts where I reflect on what I’ve learned, including emotional reactions to survivor narratives

• Interactive educational content like videos and infographics

• A “How You Can Help” section for students, parents, teachers, and allies

I hope this site helps someone feel seen, supported, or more informed. If it makes even one person feel less alone or more aware, then I know it’s worth continuing.

I presented my anti-human trafficking project on May 13, 2025, to peers and fellow Global Scholars. I hope that sharing the site and the stories behind it inspired them to think more deeply about these issues—and maybe even take action themselves. This project isn’t something I plan to leave behind after this class. I will keep the website going through college and update the blog monthly to highlight emerging or overlooked trafficking-related topics, safety, and advocacy.

I’ve grown so much through this process—not just as a student or researcher, but as a person. And I know this is just the beginning.