This Mother’s Day, REST celebrates the moms who not only fight for their kids’ wellbeing, but for their own. It is common for traffickers to target single mothers and have children with victims as a means of manipulation. Single mothers are vulnerable to traffickers' offers of love, protection, and provision. Traffickers can keep mothers loyal to trading sex for money by putting their kids in the care of the trafficker’s family and threatening to report moms to Child Protection Services if they are disobedient to their traffickers demands.
According to recent studies:
Approximately 32% of sex trafficking victims are mothers. (Source: Global Report on Trafficking in Persons 2020, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime)
Many mothers who are victims of sex trafficking have children dependent on them, further complicating their situations. (Source: Shared Hope International, "The National Report on Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking: America's Prostituted Children")
Research shows that mothers involved in sex trafficking often face additional challenges in accessing support and resources due to their caregiving responsibilities. (Source: International Labour Organization, "Global Estimates of Modern Slavery")
REST exists to expand pathways to freedom, safety, and hope in order to end sex trafficking. There are two common scenarios we see: pimps get their girls pregnant with their own children, making it one more reason girls don't want to leave "the father of their children." They also do not always provide birth control, and girls can charge more when they don't use condoms.
Consider the story of Imani*, a single mother of two whose boyfriend paid for her apartment and met all of her family's needs, then set the expectation that she earn $1000/night through the sex industry. Despite her efforts to provide for her children, Imani found herself trapped in a cycle of exploitation, unable to escape due to the threats against her family. Her story is just one of many that illustrate the harsh reality faced by mothers who are victims of sex trafficking.
This issue demands our attention and action. By raising awareness, supporting survivors, and advocating for change, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these mothers and their families. Let's continue to shine a light on this often-hidden aspect of sex trafficking and work towards a future where no mother has to endure such exploitation.
As a tribute to a mother or woman who has made sacrifices to support your journey, would you consider offering a gift to a survivor of sex trafficking? Your contribution can provide vital support and resources to help these mothers reclaim their lives and rebuild a future for themselves and their children. Donate today and send a Mother's Day eCard in honor of a selfless mother or woman who supported you.
Together, let's stand in solidarity with survivors and work towards ending sex trafficking.
*Story inspired by a courageous survivor. Name changed to protect their identity.