Part two of this series featured a talk by Carli Richie-Zavaleta, DrPH ’17 and former MCH trainee, and a panel discussion and presentation on regional anti-trafficking initiatives.

Dr. Richie-Zavaleta shared research findings with recommendations for healthcare practitioners from human trafficking survivors, while the panel discussion provided a unique perspective on human trafficking initiatives and included a forensic nurse, forensic clinical coordinator, and special advisor and forensic interview specialist from the Department of Homeland Security. Human trafficking resources (highlighted below) were also shared with attendees.

Over 150 individuals attended the webinar series, including Drexel faculty, students, staff, and alumni; faculty and students from other universities; MCH professionals across city/county health departments, nonprofit organizations, and crisis centers; and clinicians, nurses, and social workers.

Attendees enjoyed the combination of federal agency and survivor perspectives and reported that the content was relevant and timely. Vishwa Patel, 1st year MPH student in Epidemiology and MCH trainee remarked that “the webinar series was very informative and impactful for me. I had the opportunity to learn about the various programs that are in place federally and locally to help survivors. It was good to see that so many people are invested in these efforts, however, it also made me realize that more work needs to be done to make others aware of this issue. I really liked how we had the chance to hear a survivor share her story and the importance she placed on communication, and how language and tone really matter to truly be able to trust and openly communicate with someone.”