HARRISBURG, PA — In an emotional and powerful gathering at the state capitol building on Monday, the Pennsylvania Interagency Human Trafficking Workgroup, alongside survivors, advocates, law enforcement, and elected officials, marked a significant stride in the battle against human trafficking. The advocacy day and panel discussion underscored the state’s commitment to eradicating this pervasive issue, highlighting both the challenges and the collaborative efforts underway to combat it.
The event kicked off with an informational session featuring tables and displays from partner organizations, offering attendees a deeper understanding of the resources available for combating human trafficking. The session set the stage for a series of poignant discussions, where survivors shared their harrowing experiences, shedding light on the urgent need for systemic improvements to support healing and prevent further victimization.
Distinguished speakers, including Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry, Project Protect Survivor Mentor Liz Stein, and Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission Director of Policy Ashley Walkowiak, provided insights into the state’s multifaceted approach to tackling human trafficking. Their messages were clear: collaboration, education, and survivor-led advocacy are key to making meaningful progress.
A panel discussion, featuring Emmy Award-winning Documentarian and Advocate Ruchira Gupta, Chief Deputy Attorney General Heather Castellino, and other notable figures, delved into the current challenges faced in combating human trafficking. Hosted by Child Advocate and Executive Director of the PA Office of Advocacy & Reform Dr. Maryann McEvoy, the panel highlighted the complexity of these crimes, which often span across jurisdictional lines, necessitating a coordinated response from local, state, and federal agencies.
Attorney General Henry emphasized the importance of expanding the alliance against human trafficking, stating, “Brave survivors who come forward and tell their stories help others from becoming victims and enable law enforcement to prosecute predators.” The recent launch of the Human Trafficking Section within the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, led by Castellino, was cited as a critical development in this ongoing effort. The section adopts a multi-disciplinary approach, focusing on enhanced roles in investigations, prosecutions, education, and outreach.
PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll spoke to the department’s commitment to improving safety and awareness, mentioning the updated End Human Trafficking course for employees. This initiative, along with partnerships with organizations like Truckers Against Trafficking, aims to educate Pennsylvanians on recognizing and responding to signs of trafficking.
Ashley Walkowiak’s testimony, on behalf of her late sister, a victim of trafficking from Cumberland County, reminded attendees of the personal tragedies behind the statistics. Her call for trauma-informed supports for survivors and a deeper understanding of community vulnerabilities resonated deeply with those present.
The Human Trafficking Interagency Workgroup’s bimonthly meetings serve as a platform for sharing resources, discussing best practices, and coordinating prevention efforts across the state. With roughly two dozen sibling agencies and advocacy groups involved, the workgroup represents a united front against an issue that remains a shadow over American roadways and communities.
This advocacy day in Harrisburg not only brought attention to the complexities of human trafficking but also reaffirmed Pennsylvania’s resolve to fight it. Through education, collaboration, and survivor-centered approaches, the state continues to build a robust network of support for victims while taking decisive steps to dismantle trafficking networks. As these efforts gain momentum, the hope is that more survivors will find the path to healing and fewer individuals will fall prey to these heinous crimes.
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