Community symposium, training focus on human trafficking

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A national expert in human trafficking issues will speak during a May 16 community symposium on “Addressing Human Trafficking through Partnerships and Innovation” at the University of Louisville.

Dominique Roe-Sepowitz, director of Arizona State University’s Office of Sex Trafficking Intervention Research, will speak at noon during the opening luncheon session at the University Club, 200 E. Brandeis Ave.

The UofL Kent School of Social Work’s Center for Family and Community Well-being is offering the $25 event for human rights advocates, community members, researchers and practitioners. One hour of social work continuing education credit is available for session attendees.

Roe-Sepowitz, also an Arizona State associate professor of social work, will talk about a Phoenix program to teach community partners and first responders to look at issues differently in caring for and responding to trafficking survivors. She also will discuss the Starfish Place housing complex where survivors live with their children and receive trauma-informed, evidence-based services. Roe-Sepowitz’s research focuses on women and violence, particularly in prostitution.

Afterward, she will meet with the local Human Trafficking Task Force 1-2 p.m. for a strategy session about its challenges, opportunities and future.

In-depth professional training for screening and identification of human trafficking or for trauma-informed treatment of human trafficking will be offered in a 2:30-5:30 p.m. session. That $75 training includes three hours of social work continuing education units.

To register for the luncheon symposium or professional training, check here: http://louisville.edu/kent/events/human-trafficking-expert-symposium

For more information, contact Becky Antle at 502-852-2917 or becky.antle@louisville.edu.

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EDITORS: Roe-Sepowitz’s photo is attached.