Serving Deaf Populations in Anti-Trafficking
M. Elizabeth Bowman, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C | September 19 | 1:45-2:45 pm
Topic: Conceptual, Direct Service | Knowledge Level: Beginner
Deaf individuals are at a higher risk of maltreatment and trafficking than the general population due to systemic vulnerabilities. Specifically, without culturally responsive and linguistically accessible services, Deaf clients (both adults and children) may struggle with reporting maltreatment and receiving services for trauma after experiencing maltreatment. There is an increased risk of commercial sexual exploitation of children and adults who have been maltreated, and as estimates show that deaf children have a high risk of abuse, it is likely that deaf children and adults experience CSEC at a high rate due to systemic issues. This training will discuss the needs of Deaf populations related to trafficking service provision and collaboration with interpreters, Deaf serving agencies, and other supports. Attendees will learn about Deaf community considerations in terms of risk and protective factors in anti-trafficking; cultural and linguistic accessibility; and specialized needs for safe houses, case management, and other types of service provision, including how to work with Deaf led organizations, interpreters, and consultants.
Presentation Objectives:
• Explain how to reduce risk and safety issues with Deaf youth and adult clients as providers in anti-trafficking
• Discuss how to engage with Deaf survivors from an empowerment framework and resources for support
• Discuss how to find resources for accommodations and cultural competency building