This project, which aims to address sex trafficking in our city, is the first of its kind in Edmonton and is one of three across the country. Working in partnership with local experts, policy makers, and service providers, it has resulted in a local body of knowledge on the realities of sex trafficking in Edmonton and an Action Plan to reduce and prevent sex trafficking in our city.
“Human trafficking is an extreme abuse of human rights,” says Andrea Burkhart, Executive Director of ACT Alberta. “We have been so impressed with how the community has risen up against it. Our city is really ready to work together to end sex trafficking.”
The Action Plan has already received considerable support. “The City of Edmonton is proud to be involved in the fight against human trafficking,” says City Councillor Scott McKeen. “Together with the community, we are working to ensure the dignity of our citizens is valued and respected and our city remains safe, welcoming and healthy.”
This collaborative project was led by a Core Team of organizations, including: ACT Alberta, ASSIST Community Services Centre, the Centre to End All Sexual Exploitation (CEASE), the City of Edmonton, City Councillor Scott McKeen, Edmonton Immigrant Services Association (EISA), Edmonton Police Service (EPS), the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW), REACH Edmonton Council for Safe Communities, the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (SACE), and YWCA Edmonton. Sarah Chan sits as Honorary Chair.