Sex trafficking is a grave human rights violation that disproportionately impacts women and girls worldwide. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s essential to reflect on how the fight for gender equality has strengthened efforts to combat trafficking and exploitation. From legal reforms like the Swedish Model to ongoing challenges in policy, enforcement, and survivor support, this blog explores the intersections of women’s rights and anti-trafficking efforts—and how we can all play a role in driving change. Read now to learn how you can take action!
Black entrepreneurs have long been at the heart of economic progress, resilience, and innovation, yet the fight for economic justice and opportunity remains ongoing. This Black History Month, REST is honoring the 2025 theme, “African Americans and Labor,” by spotlighting Black-owned businesses and their vital contributions to our communities. Economic empowerment is key to breaking cycles of exploitation, including sex trafficking, and investing in Black businesses helps create sustainable opportunities and stronger communities. Throughout February, explore our curated list of Black-owned businesses, discover new ways to support Black entrepreneurship, and join us in building a more just and equitable future.
What if your resolution this year could help change lives? Start 2025 with purpose by joining the mission to end sex trafficking and create freedom, safety, and hope in our communities. Human trafficking impacts vulnerable populations right here in Seattle, including youth, those experiencing homelessness, and communities of color. This January, during National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, REST is hosting events, workshops, and advocacy campaigns to inspire action. Together, we can build a future where freedom and dignity are accessible to all.
From childhood trauma to years of exploitation, Queen’s life has been marked by unthinkable challenges. Yet, through sheer resilience and the right support, she found the courage to begin rebuilding her life in ways she never thought possible. Discover Queen’s inspiring journey—one of survival, strength, and a relentless pursuit of hope.
This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we’re shedding light on the link between domestic violence and sex trafficking. Both involve manipulation, isolation, and control, leaving survivors vulnerable. At REST, we offer support through our crisis hotline, emergency shelter, and other services. Learn how you can recognize the signs, take action, and support survivors.
In April of 2018, the federal government seized and shut down Backpage. In a blog earlier this year, we wrote about the unintended consequences of the shutdown—and among them was a resurgence in sex trade activity on the streets.
That’s why we recently relaunched our Street Outreach Team.
Before its shutdown, Backpage was estimated to account for 80% of the sex trade in the US. In the anti-trafficking movement, there was cause for celebration that Backpage and other website providers could be held accountable for their role in facilitating sex trafficking. At the same time here at REST, however, we have seen an influx of individuals seeking help because of unintended consequences from the shutdown of these sites.
Danielle, a Microsoft employee, volunteered her time to Hack for Good at Microsoft’s //oneweek Hackathon for REST’s Project Reach Out and met a survivor of sex trafficking and employee of REST who privately shared her story to help inform the project participants. Danielle sent us this letter about the profound impact this survivor had on her.
At REST, it seems like we’re always up to something big: a resident finishes school and gains a degree, a survivor joins our support group and finds a meaningful community or we celebrate another survivor who has successfully escaped the sex trade for 30 days, 6 months or a year. These last few months have been no different. There is a lot to catch up on, and so much to celebrate!
Most of the photographs on this website are stock photography, featuring models used for illustrative purposes only. With few carefully evaluated exceptions, we do not publish or share photos of REST clients.
