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SAFE Center Research and Program Coordinator Sophie Aron was named Vice Chair of the Montgomery County Human Trafficking Prevention Committee last month, after 3 years of working closely with the committee. Ms. Aron joined the SAFE Center in 2019 after earning her Masters in Social Work from the University of Maryland School of Social Work. […]

Source: The Washington Post | March 31, 2022   If an adult pays to sexually abuse a child, that child is a victim. The adult is the criminal. But under the law, that’s not always true: In 23 states, it is still possible to prosecute a child for prostitution. Maryland may become the next state […]

Source: UMB News | February 2, 2022   While many advances have been made in the last two decades since landmark measures were put into place to combat human trafficking, a lot of work remains to be done and federal and international representation must continue to be involved.   That was the overriding theme of […]

This January, during Human Trafficking Awareness Month, the SAFE Center developed and hosted a high-level, virtual two-panel program featuring leaders from across the U.S. government, international organizations, and the survivor community. These experts delivered insights into recent developments in U.S. anti-trafficking policies and programs, and updates on important international issues in the anti-trafficking field. The University […]

Source: Emirates News Agency | March 10, 2021   The Higher Committee of Human Fraternity (HCHF) hosted its first-ever Women’s Virtual Forum this week, featuring powerhouse female leaders, experts, and activists.   The participants included Vice President of Costa Rica Epsy Campbell Barr; UAE Minister of Culture and Youth Noura Al Kaabi; UN Women Executive […]

This January, SAFE Center staff team was actively involved in promoting Human Trafficking Awareness Month within the community—delivering presentations during numerous anti-trafficking events, providing independent trainings to community organizations, and raising awareness through media appearances.   Human Trafficking Conversation with Senator Ben Cardin On January 22, the SAFE Center partnered with the Prince George’s County […]

January 22, 2021   In honor of Human Trafficking Awareness Month, the SAFE Center partnered with the Prince George’s County Human Trafficking Task Force to co-host U.S. Senator Benjamin Cardin of Maryland for a virtual conversation about human trafficking efforts in Maryland. Following opening remarks by Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, Senator Cardin heard […]

January 2021     This Human Trafficking Awareness Month, the UMD SAFE Center is pleased to partner with TISTA Science & Technology and their 700 employees in providing the Center’s survivors with VISA gift cards for groceries and family essentials. TISTA and the SAFE Center began working together in December of 2019, when TISTA employees […]

January, 2021   Now that 2020 has come to a close, we reflect on the unique challenges presented by the pandemic and our efforts to meet the acute needs of trafficking survivors who have been severely impacted. The pandemic has exacerbated our clients’ vulnerability to homelessness, food insecurity, and re-exploitation. Many have lost jobs and […]