We are excited to announce the publication of our latest photovoice research exploring what survivor leadership means to survivors of human trafficking. Photovoice is a community-based participatory research (CBPR) method grounded in documentary photography, feminist theory, and empowerment theory. In photovoice projects, community members take photographs of objects that represent their experiences with a given topic, sharing their photographs and experiences with peers and engaging in critical dialogue with fellow community members. The goal is to amplify marginalized voices and inform policy, advocacy, or community change through visual storytelling.
Beginning in 2024, Eleison’s Survivor Leadership Council (SLC), a client advisory board comprised of survivors of human trafficking and gender-based violence who have graduated from Eleison’s programs, began collaborating with other members of our team on a photovoice study exploring the meaning of survivor leadership in the anti-trafficking movement. SLC members collected study data, received training in qualitative data analysis, analyzed study data, and disseminated findings in the community, including recommendations for strengthening survivor leadership in the anti-trafficking sector.
Study findings reinforce the value of survivors’ lived experience expertise, the need to increase public recognition for the value of survivor leadership, and the importance of meaningful survivor engagement in creating survivor-centered anti-trafficking programs. Survivor co-researchers stressed that there are limited employment pathways for survivors in the anti-trafficking sector, highlighting the need for access to professional roles and employment opportunities. Professional opportunities should, however, be accompanied by capacity building and training opportunities for survivor leaders. The lack of funding for survivor-led and co-led work serves as an additional barrier. Sustainable survivor leadership requires proper compensation and financial investment in survivor-led and co-led work. Finally, collaboration between survivors and allies is critical, enhancing the overall efficacy and reach of programming.
We are excited to share the findings of our research with the broader community. To read our findings, we invite you to refer to our manuscript published in the Journal of Human Trafficking.
