Witness Walk

Based on a research study called "Mapping the Demand" conducted by Lauren Martin and her colleagues at the University of Minnesota.  This multiple-method study exposed patterns of sex buying in Minnesota.

Based on how the seven survivors answered the question: "how were you impacted from being trafficked?"

Their responses:

• I never felt loved in my relationships unless my self-worth could be proved by the amount of money I made.

• Prostitution is emotionally draining. It stays in my mind. People died right at my feet.

• Diagnosed bipolar disorder.  In and out of jails and treatment centers. I lost my children to the system.

• I'm struggling mentally, but I won't admit it. I don't want people to think I'm weak. I still have nightmares about what I saw and the pain I felt.

• It's hard to find a decent place to live. I put up a big wall so no one can get in. I don't trust men now.

• Just making it through alive is a miracle. I had guns pulled on me. Now I have a criminal record.

• I thought it was easy money. Drugs got in the way. I thought as a child it was the glamorous life.

Here the survivors describe the best parts of their lives as girls and sources of strength now.  
Their responses:

• I followed my grandmother around like her shadow. I love to try and imitate her ways and help her sew.

• Camping, God, support groups, grandchildren. My Mom is by best friend. My twin. God. Breaking Free.

• Basketball, running track, cheerleading, marching in the band, getting my driver's license, Breaking Free, church family, fellowship.

• My baby sister has gotten me through everything. God has blessed me with my own personal angels.

• Just being with Mom, spending the night at grandma's.

• My therapist. Breaking Free sisters. To not see my granddaughter go through the trauma that I experienced.

• Teaching other people what I have dealt with. Support. Therapy. Daughter & grand-daughter.