Beyond Tokenization: Understanding and Addressing the Experiences of Survivor Leaders in Anti-Trafficking Work
Michael (Mike) Chapman, BS; Helen L. Stiver & Jarrett Davis, MA | September 18 | 9:45-10:45 am EDT
Topic: Research, Experience | Knowledge Level: Intermediate
This presentation shares findings from a collaborative research initiative led by the Global Association of Human Trafficking Scholars (GAHTS) Survivor Research Group examining the complex experiences of survivor leaders in the anti-trafficking movement. This mixed-methods approach includes survey data from 87 survivor leaders across 4 continents and in-depth qualitative interviews with a diverse subset of participants, specifically designed to capture often-overlooked perspectives including male survivors and labor trafficking survivors. The preliminary findings reveal concerning patterns: 79% of survivor leaders report experiencing tokenization at least occasionally, nearly 90% face exploitation or unfair compensation, and 89% report being treated as less competent despite their expertise. The qualitative interview phase explored these challenges in greater depth while identifying promising practices for meaningful inclusion. This survivor-led research initiative is uniquely positioned to provide insights into effective organizational relationships, financial sustainability, and professional development pathways for survivor leaders. Presenters will share emerging themes from the interviews regarding how organizations can move beyond performative inclusion to authentic collaboration, highlighting concrete recommendations for researchers, organizations, and policymakers committed to addressing power imbalances. Finally, the presenters will provide evidence-based recommendations that center survivor voices and experiences in developing best practices for the field.
Presentation Objectives:
• Provide an overview of research findings on challenges survivor leaders face in anti-trafficking work
• Present qualitative insights on the relationship between organizational practices and survivor leader experiences
• Discuss evidence-based recommendations for meaningful inclusion of survivor expertise in research, policy, and program development
• Highlight the importance of diverse representation in survivor leadership, particularly for historically marginalized groups