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Sandy Skelaney (Part 1): Creating Safe Spaces for Survivor Leaders in Anti-Trafficking Work
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In today's episode, Sandy Skelaney takes us on a remarkable journey through the evolution of anti-trafficking work, sharing invaluable insights from her two decades on the frontlines. As a highly recognized public sector leader and TEDx speaker, Sandy brings a unique perspective that bridges victim advocacy, technology innovation, and organizational leadership.
The conversation begins with Sandy's early pioneering work during the formative years of the modern anti-trafficking movement. Sandy developed a deep appreciation for survivor leadership that continues to guide her approach today. Her candid reflections reveal the challenges and triumphs of building comprehensive victim services from the ground up.
Sandy offers a fascinating historical perspective on how our understanding of human trafficking has transformed. This context provides listeners with a crucial framework for understanding both the progress made and the work still needed in the anti-trafficking movement.
The discussion takes a compelling turn as Sandy explores technology's dual role in human trafficking — how emerging technologies are often the first tools used for exploitation but can also become powerful instruments for protection. This insight drives her current work at the Parasol Cooperative, where she develops tech solutions to counter gender-based violence and tech-facilitated abuse.
Sandy offers practical wisdom on implementing trauma-informed supervision, building organizational communities based on restorative justice principles, and addressing the systemic funding challenges that lead to burnout.
Whether you're a professional in the anti-trafficking field, a survivor leader, or simply concerned about these issues, Sandy's blend of lived experience, professional expertise, and technological innovation offers essential guidance for moving this critical work forward.
Subscribe now to hear more conversations like these!
Welcome to Conversations with My Sisters' Keepers, the podcast where we bring awareness, share stories, and promote healing-centered conversations for lived experience professionals and allies in the gender-based violence and recovery sectors.
I'm Shamin Brown, and together, we’ll explore strategies, resources, and insights to support wellness, recovery, and leadership. Join us as we challenge stigma, celebrate autonomy, and normalize the healing journey.
Chapters
1. Introduction to Sandy Skelaney (00:00:00)
2. Palermo Protocol and Early Anti-Trafficking Work (00:07:50)
3. Personal Journey and Lived Experience (00:14:38)
4. Technology's Role in Exploitation Prevention (00:21:18)
5. Survivor Leadership Challenges (00:28:53)
6. Creating Supportive Organizational Communities (00:35:35)
7. Healing-Centered Approaches and Episode Closing (00:42:45)
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