MANITOULIN—In a move aimed at bolstering efforts to combat human trafficking, Jessica Summers, the anti-human trafficking coordinator for Manitoulin Northshore Victim Services (MNVS), has transitioned into a new role as a victim support specialist. Ms. Summers brings her expertise to MNVS in a bid to provide crucial support to those affected by this heinous crime.
Human trafficking, a widespread issue globally, involves various forms of exploitation such as commercial sexual exploitation, forced labour, forced marriage and organ trafficking. Despite misconceptions, trafficking is not confined to borders or specific demographics; it affects individuals from diverse backgrounds, with vulnerable populations, including Indigenous women and girls, at heightened risk. Statistics from 2016 state that Indigenous women, who only make up four percent of the Canadian population, make up approximately 50 percent of trafficking victims.
Ms. Summers highlights the insidious nature of trafficking, which often begins with recruitment through coercion, manipulation or false promises. Victims, ensnared in a cycle of abuse and exploitation, may develop trauma bonds with their traffickers, making it difficult to break free from their control. Even after escaping, the likelihood of returning to their trafficker remains high, underscoring the complexities of recovery and reintegration.
The recruitment sources for trafficking are varied, ranging from social media platforms to trusted community members, making it crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and recognize red flags indicating potential exploitation. Signs such as restricted freedom, sudden behavioural changes, or unexplained bruises should prompt immediate action and intervention. Human trafficking is defined as: “Recruiting, transporting, transferring, receiving, holding, concealing or harbouring a person, or exercising control, direction or influence over the movements of a person, for the purpose of exploiting them or facilitating their exploitation.” Ms. Summers emphasized that human trafficking “is not consensual sex work done by persons over the age of 18” nor “the smuggling of persons over international border,” the latter specifically to do with persons seeking asylum.
Local statistics from victim services agencies underscore the prevalence of trafficking within communities. From April 2022 to March 2023, MNVS, Algoma Victim Services and Sudbury and Area Victim Services collectively provided support to over a hundred individuals involved in trafficking, with a significant proportion being female. The majority of human trafficking that occurs in the district is commercial sexual exploitation.
In light of these alarming figures, collaborative efforts involving law enforcement, support services, and community outreach are essential to combat trafficking effectively. Individuals are urged to seek assistance from dedicated helplines and organizations such as MNVS, the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline and Angels of Hope Against Human Trafficking, among others, to report suspicious activity or seek support for themselves or others affected by trafficking.
Victims services is launching a new support program for victims services that includes safety plans, financial support as well as counselling and community support. If you suspect that you or someone that you love are the victim of human trafficking you are encouraged to reach out for support. Where to seek assistance:
Manitoulin Northshore Victim Services:
705-370-3378
(24/7 via Police)
Canadian Human
Trafficking Hotline:
1-833-900-1010 (24/7)
Manitoulin Family Resources Crisis:
705-377-5160 (24/7)
Angels of Hope Against Human Trafficking:
705-822-8630
Kids Help Phone:
1-800-668-6868 (24/7)
Crime Stoppers Tip
Hotline: 705-222-8477
Police non-emergency:
1-888-310-1122
Or for emergencies:
Dial 9-1-1
