Project Rose - helping victims of sex trafficking in Phoenix

[jaclynisradical]

3. Do Not Confuse Trafficking With Consenting Adults

How can a diversion initiative like this actively seek out ONLY street based economy sex workers? How is it possible for the police to differentiate trafficked individuals from consenting adults? Oh, that's right. They cannot. This initiative lacks a nuanced analysis of the worker's individual lives and stems from anti-trafficking rhetoric. The organizations involved should be ASHAMED of themselves for teaming up with the police (i.e. Catholic Charities USA, StreetLightUSA, Community Bridges AZ, etc). By treating community members working within the sex industry with a victim-mentality and subsequently re-victimizing them by teaming up with Phoenix PD and having them face the violent, traumatic and brutal reality of being placed under arrest is inherently contradictory and it will scare community members away from these organizations. These organizations are also offered funding to assist with anything anti-trafficking. The completion rate of this program is telling BECAUSE IT STATES THAT IT IS INEFFECTIVE. Shoving services down community members throats by using police force as an impetus goes against what the foundations of social work are and it strips people of their autonomy and agency. Not all workers are victims and not all need to be saved. Shame on YOU 3TV Phoenix and especially YOU Natalie Brand, for this puff piece; a total lack of critical analysis. And shame on ASU School of Social Work for backing this program that actively seeks to criminalize women in poverty.