Inter-Faith Sex Trafficking Summit

Sex trafficking is a problem in Arizona that affects both minors and adults. There are hundreds of people who have the desire to counter trafficking in Arizona, and out of that desire numerous organizations have been created. While this can be beneficial to the cause, it can also become a hindrance by diluting resources and creating an atmosphere of competitiveness between organizations. The Inter-Faith Sex Trafficking Summit was an attempt to build unity and community between these organizations and to raise awareness of existing groups to those who are newly involved. Attendees represented over 108 different agencies, organizations, and faiths. Throughout the day, speakers shared their experiences and expertise on the results of collaborative efforts to promote change in community awareness, legislation, and service provision. Themes emerged including \u2014 1) no one can do this alone; we are stronger together, 2) regardless of our affiliation or theology we are on the same team and need to work as a team, and 3) the bad guys are strategic; we have to be strategic, too. Since the summit was held, numerous individuals have set up meetings to continue to discuss how they can work together. An attendee directory has been circulated, and a blog, Inter-faith Strategy to Stop Trafficking has been created to enhance connectivity. An exit survey reveals that the majority of attendees are interested in pursuing more opportunity for connecting and building a stronger alliance as well as discovering ways to become more strategic.