Exploitation

Exploitation is when someone takes something from us or forces us to do something for them or others against our will.

Exploitation can range from demanding small bribes, stealing monthly benefits, financial scams, and wage theft, through to sex and labor trafficking. Often the exploiter will use physical, emotional, or financial threats to get their way, or perpetrate abuse or violence. Exploitation can make us feel powerless, unsafe, ashamed, hopeless, and disconnected from other people. 

Safe Horizon provides victims and survivors crisis support, including shelter, access to basic care and respite, immigration support, legal support following trafficking, and advocacy with police and courts. Immediate and long term supports include counseling, support groups, accompaniment to appointments, assistance completing forms to replace IDs and important documents, restitution and financial support, and information and partnership finding safe, stable housing. Safe Horizon also advocates to raise awareness, change laws, and expand anti-exploitation programs.

Loida’s story

We spoke with a Safe Horizon case manager over the phone. They were the only ones to ask, “are you safe?