Reflections from last week’s Human Trafficking Conference

On Wednesday, March 25, more than 200 members of the community representing over 25 agencies came together to share information and learn about the impacts of human trafficking in Guelph. The theme - From Silos to Solutions: A collective response to human trafficking - was intended to help strengthen relationships and foster a collaborative approach to addressing this pressing issue. 

“We’re grateful for the chance to take part in these important conversations with local partners and agencies that allow us to better understand the impacts of human trafficking in our community,” said Chief Gord Cobey of the Guelph Police Service. “Strengthening relationships through events like these allow us to work together to ensure victims and survivors get the support and care they need and that offenders are held accountable.”

The event kicked off with a presentation from Jasmine De Fina, a nationally recognized human trafficking consultant, trainer and survivor. She shared an inspirational message of strength and resiliency which provided those in attendance with a much greater understanding of the prevalence and impacts of human trafficking.

Participants also had the opportunity to hear from Melissa Hern and Susan Orlando from the Ministry of the Attorney General to learn more about their efforts to prosecute these complex cases and the supports available to victims and survivors throughout the process. Devon Clunis, an International Police and Leadership Consultant, closed out the day with an important message of how to build unity in the community by working together.

The conference was hosted by the Guelph Police Service in partnership with Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis and Victim Services Wellington. This important event was made possible with the support of the Ministry of the Solicitor General and the Province of Ontario.

Statistics Canada data identifies Guelph as having the highest reported number of human trafficking incidents in Canada. These figures represent the strong local focus and investments made which are allowing service providers to understand the true magnitude of this issue in Guelph. This includes extensive consultation with the community, the development of the Guelph Police Service’s new integrated Human Trafficking and Intimate Partner Violence Unit and specialized training for its members.

Working together with the community, the Guelph Police Service is committed to reducing the impacts of this terrible crime through proactive education, ensuring support for survivors, and relentless working to hold offenders accountable. 

If someone is being trafficked, knows someone who is, or has information or questions about Human Trafficking, they can contact:

• Guelph Police Service at 519-824-1212 or humantraffickingunit@guelphpolice.ca
• Human Trafficking Hotline  at 1-833-900-1010
• Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis at 1-800-265-7233
• Victim Services Wellington at 519-824-1212 x7304
• Anonymous tips can be left for Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submitted online at www.csgw.tips

Additional Quotes

“It’s so inspiring to be a part of this conference. There is not one agency who can do this work - we all need to work together with the best interest of the victims driving our efforts.” Elizabeth Kent, Executive Director, Victim Services Wellington

“Events like this are incredibly important to build relationships, raise awareness and educate people in our community so that we can respond effectively to the needs of victims of human trafficking. Collaboration is critical for dealing with this complex issue as victims can come through any door across various sectors for support. These types of events enable us to work together as a community to address human trafficking.”  Sly Castaldi, Executive Director, Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis

“We are grateful for our partnership with the Guelph Police Service. They have provided valuable professional development opportunities for our staff, helping them gain greater awareness of this serious issue and better understand the impact of these crimes in our local community. Everyone has a role to play in crime prevention, and this new perspective helps us build safer communities for our students.” Michael Glazier, Director of Education, Wellington Catholic District School Board