Do You See Us?

Abstract

This paper examines the literature on domestic minor sex trafficking. We draw on a critical race feminist lens, with particular attention to intersectionality and assemblage, to review research on conditions that exacerbate and decrease girls’ vulnerability to sex trafficking to emphasize why schools must systematically engage in sex trafficking prevention. We argue that school communities are positioned to address the intersectional and exacerbating conditions that make students, particularly Black girls, more vulnerable to this form of modern-day slavery. Rather than reinforce narratives that often criminalize and devalue survivors, the purpose of this article is to create a dialogue about how schools can be intentional in fighting sex trafficking in their communities. We provide specific recommendations for schools to place girls’ voices at the center of this prevention work and build knowledge within the school faculty to sustain this work, work that is both feminist and anti-racist, to equip students to become competent, confident, and empowered leaders.