WATERMEE, Mich. (WLUC) — About 250 people gathered at Northern Waters Casino Resort on Tuesday to hear the story of Jessica Kay, a human trafficking victim who is now an attorney.
Kay has traveled around the country sharing her story to raise awareness about human trafficking and domestic violence.
She said her experience with a social worker made her want to become an advocate.
“I realized I was just a pile of paper moving from desk to desk,” Kay says, “and that’s when this idea started. And then I got my master’s degree, pursued a career in social work, and started doing advocacy.”
The Watersmeet incident was Kay’s first visit to Michigan.
Kay encouraged other victims and survivors to reach out to support systems.
“If you’re on the other side of a wound right now trying to heal, it’s the same thing. Healing is a process, so trust the process,” Kay says. “So you’re going to have good days, you’re going to have bad days, you’re going to have ugly cry days, but keep going. There’s a strong support system here if you want to.”
Michigan State Police Community Services Officer Geno Bassanese also spoke at the event, educating attendees on what they can do to prevent human trafficking.
Bassanese said the internet can give bad actors access to vulnerable people, even in small towns.
“One of the big challenges with cell phones is that you can talk to anyone in the world at any time,” Bassanese said. “It’s really important for parents to know what their kids are doing and who they’re talking to.”
If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
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