The activities, which are free and open to the public, will be available on Zoom or in person at the School of Law on Quinnipiac’s North Haven Campus, 370 Bassett Road. The schedule will include a film screening, a panel discussion and a training session.

“Human trafficking isn’t just a global issue — it’s a local one, happening in our very own communities, often hidden in plain sight,” said Heather Mansfield, a law student and executive chairwoman of HTTP. “It thrives in silence, making awareness one of our most powerful tools. Whether you're a lawyer, student, community member, or someone who simply refuses to look away, your voice matters. Change begins with awareness — join the conversation this Awareness Week.”

The panel discussion, “Risk and Resilience: Understanding Vulnerabilities and Pathways to Exploitation,” will take place from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20. This panel will bring together diverse voices with lived experiences and expertise in human trafficking, immigration and public health to examine the systemic vulnerabilities that expose marginalized populations to exploitation and trafficking.
 
Through personal stories and expert insights, the panel discussion will explore how factors such as immigration status, race, healthcare access, sexual abuse and criminal history intersect, putting marginalized groups at risk. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the resilience within these communities and the need for proactive solutions to address these vulnerabilities.

The training session, “Human Trafficking Awareness: What Everyone Should Know,” will start at noon on Friday, Feb. 21. The training session will be led by trafficking experts and HTPP’s own skilled trainers. Attendees will gain a understanding of human trafficking, including how to recognize the signs and steps to take if one encounters a trafficking situation.

Through a combination of lectures, interactive discussions and analysis of hypothetical scenarios, this training will equip people with the knowledge and tools to take action.

“Today, with everything that’s going on, we’re seeing the dramatic chilling effect national policies can have — whether they’re just rhetorical scare tactics or based on real policies,” said Sheila Hayre, clinical professor of law at Quinnipiac and HTTP adviser. “This chilling effect is magnified for trafficking victims, dramatically undercutting their willingness to come forward, report their traffickers and get help. Now, more than ever, we must take a step back and work to envision a better system — one that provides security and support for all survivors, including individuals vulnerable to trafficking, no matter what their experiences or backgrounds."

Learn more and register now