[Intro] There is so much to what makes a person who they are. A lot that sets them apart uniquely without dissociating them from humanity.
[Context]
Over the past 8 years, whilst working with non profits as an artist & photographer in Nairobi and on assignment in different parts of the country, I have interacted with over 100 survivors of human trafficking, with 95% being women. Many case workers would attest, and I agree, that there are many aspects to this type of work with many sensitivities to consider.
Within these same years I have read many articles on human trafficking, watched many stories on social media and in the news both locally and internationally.
Over the past 8 years, whilst working with non profits as an artist & photographer in Nairobi and on assignment in different parts of the country, I have interacted with over 100 survivors of human trafficking, with 95% being women. Many case workers would attest, and I agree, that there are many aspects to this type of work with many sensitivities to consider.
Within these same years I have read many articles on human trafficking, watched many stories on social media and in the news both locally and internationally.
That being said, in this art story, I am only going to focus on one aspect that I have observed directly from survivors: IDENTITY.
I have met a lady who was excited to participate in a pageant and one highly skilled as a writer. I have met a political aspirant, a human rights activist, a professional speaker, a professional cook, a content creator, an online entrepreneur. I have been welcomed into homes and churches. Into bars and food kibandas. I have been invited to a wedding, a baptism, a funeral etc. I have met very bold personalities as well as calm natured ones, not forgetting the headstrong and the cheeky ones. I have met a lady so bubbly and energetic that she couldn't sit still for more than 10 minutes without getting busy.
The list is endless.
The list is endless.
How do survivors want to be identified?
How many of us ,with the exception of case workers (warriors), consider the humanly aspects of life when we view survivors?
How many of us ,with the exception of case workers (warriors), consider the humanly aspects of life when we view survivors?
Our characteristics as human beings make us who we are. We should take the precaution to love and protect each other but we shouldn't forget that survivors need the space to exist freely and not to constantly subdue themselves because they have overcome tough times.
The whole point to survival is to reclaim agency over oneself and to determine one's path with dignity.
