Ending Human Trafficking: A National Call to Courage and Action

Mar 25, 2026, 10:00AM

ENDING HUMAN TRAFFICKING ROUNDTABLE

The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) convened leaders, advocates, law enforcement officials, and survivors for a critical roundtable focused on ending human trafficking. Hosted in Washington, D.C. by the America First Women’s Initiative, the event brought together voices from across policy, faith, and frontline enforcement to confront one of the most urgent human rights crises of our time.

Opening the session, AFPI’s Stacey Schieffelin underscored the moral weight of the issue:

“The true measure of a country is not found in its power, but in its courage to defend the most vulnerable among us.”

The roundtable set the tone for a day centered on awareness, accountability, and action.

A FOUNDATION ROOTED IN TRUTH

Schieffelin introduced the guiding framework behind the America First Women’s Initiative—TRUTH:

• Transparency: Exposing darkness through awareness
• Revitalization: Restoring dignity and future to victims
• Unity: Calling all citizens to responsibility
• Trust: Upholding promises to protect the vulnerable
• Health: Safeguarding the next generation—mind, body, and spirit

This framework reflects a broader commitment to confronting trafficking not only as a policy issue, but as a moral imperative.

FAITH, DIGNITY, AND HUMAN WORTH

The invocation, delivered by Father Charles Trullols, emphasized the inherent dignity of every human life and the need for compassion and justice.

His prayer called attention to the deep physical, emotional, and spiritual wounds carried by victims, while urging leaders to act with wisdom, courage, and integrity.

“Make us vigilant in protecting the vulnerable, bold in defending human dignity, and faithful in building a society where every person is safe, cherished, and free.”

PERSONAL TESTIMONY AND THE POWER OF AWARENESS

Betsy Sheehy, Vice Chair of AFPI’s America Combats Trafficking & Child Exploitation initiative, shared a deeply personal perspective shaped by decades of exposure to exploitation.

She emphasized the urgent need for public awareness in an increasingly distracted, digital world:

• Millions of individuals globally are affected by trafficking each year
• Many Americans remain unaware of the scale and proximity of the issue
• Education and awareness are critical first steps toward prevention

“There’s something wrong with a civilization that does not protect its most innocent and vulnerable.”

Sheehy highlighted the importance of community responsibility, urging individuals to recognize that trafficking is not distant—it can affect any family, anywhere.

EXPOSING THE REALITY OF TRAFFICKING

Bob Unanue, Chair of America Combats Trafficking & Child Exploitation, addressed the systemic and human dimensions of trafficking.

He emphasized:

• Trafficking strips victims of identity, reducing them to commodities
• The global trafficking industry generates billions annually
• Victims often endure cycles of coercion, isolation, and control

Unanue also highlighted the importance of awareness efforts, including educational initiatives aimed at schools, parents, and communities.

“You lose your identity. You lose your humanity. You become a commodity.”

He reinforced the need for both policy solutions and cultural change, noting that prevention begins with strong families and informed communities.

POLICY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Throughout the roundtable, leaders emphasized the role of coordinated policy and enforcement in combating trafficking.

Key themes included:

• Strengthening enforcement against traffickers and criminal networks
• Enhancing victim protection and support systems
• Improving coordination across federal, state, and local agencies
• Expanding education and prevention initiatives

Jason Manion, Counselor to the Attorney General, highlighted the Department of Justice’s role in prosecuting traffickers and supporting victims:

• Federal prosecutions targeting trafficking networks
• Increased collaboration with law enforcement agencies
• Expanded resources for victim services and recovery

“The downstream effects of exploitation—trauma, loss, and instability—are profound and long-lasting.”

BORDER SECURITY AND TRAFFICKING PREVENTION

A panel featuring Ronald Vitiello, Tony Pham, and other experts explored the intersection of border security and human trafficking.

Discussion points included:

• The relationship between illegal migration flows and trafficking risks
• The importance of enforcement in disrupting trafficking networks
• Enhanced interagency coordination to identify and rescue victims

Officials noted that improved operational alignment across agencies has strengthened efforts to detect and prevent trafficking at scale.

THE HUMAN TOLL: A GLOBAL AND DOMESTIC CRISIS

Pastor Jaco Booyens brought a global perspective shaped by decades of anti-trafficking work.

He emphasized:

• The psychological and neurological trauma experienced by victims
• The role of cultural and societal factors in enabling exploitation
• The importance of prevention through education and family stability

“Most victims don’t even know they’re victims. They must be rescued again and again.”

Booyens stressed that combating trafficking requires more than enforcement—it demands a cultural shift that prioritizes the protection of children and accountability at every level of society.

A WHOLE-OF-SOCIETY RESPONSE

Julie Warren, AFPI Chief Alignment Officer, concluded the roundtable by reinforcing the need for collective action.

She highlighted that:

• Government, law enforcement, nonprofits, and communities must work together
• Victims must be restored—not only rescued
• Justice must be pursued both legally and morally

“It will require every element of society if we are truly going to bring justice and restoration.”

THE ROAD AHEAD

The Ending Human Trafficking Roundtable made one thing clear: addressing this crisis requires sustained commitment, coordination, and courage.

Key priorities moving forward include:

• Expanding awareness and education nationwide
• Strengthening enforcement and prosecution efforts
• Enhancing victim support and recovery systems
• Building partnerships across sectors

The challenge is significant—but so is the resolve.

At stake is not only the safety of individuals, but the moral integrity of the nation itself.