By: Ali Elizabeth Turner
As this edition of Athens Now appropriately showcases the 250th birthday of our nation, I can think of no better way to “celebrate” than to tell our readers about an event that is coming up in just 14 days. It is the 3rd annual Fortify Alabama Anti-trafficking Conference to be held once again in the Jackson Center in Huntsville, on Friday, July 17, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and I know it will serve to light a fire to see freedom finally “ring” for those who are caught in the most damaging and dangerous form of slavery there is.
I have personally attended several Fortify Alabama events, and will say from experience that this anti-trafficking conference is challenging, inspiring and worthy of your time. As Nicole Wilson, founder of Fortify said recently, “Whether you’re a parent, educator, healthcare professional, social worker, law enforcement officer, ministry leader, or simply someone who wants to better understand this issue, this conference is designed to provide practical knowledge, meaningful conversations, and actionable resources.”
This is a heavy topic, to be sure, but one that is genuinely and professionally filled with hope, and that hope shows up at the conference. If you are a professional in need of CEUs for yourself or your organization, they are available. You will have the opportunity to both learn from and interact with people who are pilots who take huge risks to fly people to freedom, law enforcement members who have done undercover work to bust perpetrators, cyber-specialists that fight especially for kids both online and off, parents who have walked through the nightmare, caregivers who help put people back together, and the most inspiring of all, the “sur-thrivers” themselves.
Here is a lineup of the speakers:
Jessica Lamb, Founder of Atlanta Redemption Ink
Jessica is a “sur-thriver” of 6.5 years of trafficking, and is an expert on how traffickers use tattoos and branding to deepen the psychological “captivity of captives” of trafficking as well as gang members. She also started an organization that can remove “tats,” repurpose them into other forms of body art, and bring redemption within and without.
Matthew Hackey, Executive Director, FLT 316
Matthew is a commercial pilot, and FLT 316 flies the rescued to safety. His stories are riveting and his commitment to this cause is deep.
Stacy Lane, Director, FLT 316
Stacy left the corporate world to become a pilot and use her new skills to rescue as well as empower. Sometimes for someone who has just been rescued, the sight of a woman in the pilot’s seat begins the healing process. Stacy also is a recognized and empowering conference speaker.
Corey Buckner, Founder and Executive Director of Always Endure
Corey is a cancer survivor, a pastor, and a fierce advocate for foster kids, foster parents, and those seeking to adopt.
Samuel Day, Detective, Murfreesboro TN Police Department
Detective Day has 30 years of experience with MPD, and is highly decorated. He has been with the Criminal Investigation arm of the force and is an expert with regards to all things trafficking.
Gregory Zarzaur, Attorney At Law
Gregory’s firm is located in the Birmingham area, and much of his practice has been devoted to advocating for victims of sexual abuse and trafficking.
Jared Miller, Founder, Still Waters
Jared has more than 15 years in the anti-trafficking movement which include founding Freedom Aviation Network, and currently is focusing on the often overlooked and unique needs of boys and men who have been trafficked.
Nick Lembo, Executive Director Street Grace in Arizona
Nick disrupts the demand for trafficking through engaging with would-be consumers. He largely focuses on online activity and is dedicated to the restoration of both consumers and the consumed.
Nicole said further, “Throughout the day, you’ll hear from nationally recognized speakers, survivor leaders, law enforcement professionals, and nonprofit experts covering topics that matter in our communities today. We don’t want you to miss this opportunity to learn from experts, connect with others in the community, and leave equipped to make a difference.”
The day includes morning coffee, lunch, vendor and resource tables, a breakout session, prayer, networking opportunities, profound educational content, and CEUs for which you can register. The cost is $40, and seating is limited. Register today at https://fortifyalabama.com/anti-human-trafficking-conference/ I can unequivocally say, “You’ll be glad you did!”
By: Ali Elizabeth Turner
