Human Trafficking: Advancing Protections for Children Practicum

Catalog description

Section 001 (2 credits) Human trafficking is one of the most egregious crimes that occurs both globally and domestically. While there have been improvements to both global and domestic responses to human trafficking, children who are compelled into forced labor and sexual exploitation continue to be the least identified cohort of survivors. This interactive and interdisciplinary seminar will explore the legal, social, and practical issues confronting children who are survivors of human trafficking, as well as an examination of efforts to prevent and intervene in this social problem. While the seminar will focus on unique issues affecting (international and US citizen) survivors of child trafficking, students will gain knowledge and skills that are applicable to other marginalized populations of children and youth, as well as adult trafficking survivors. The seminar will begin with an overview of a history of anti-slavery statutes and case law to provide a foundation for contemporary international human rights and domestic laws addressing human trafficking. Students will be introduced to various frameworks, including criminal justice, public health, gender-based, human rights, and abolitionist, to combat human trafficking. Students will analyze current research in the field, and explore interventions utilized by both legal, social and public health providers. Assignment and exercises will include mock interviews, critical analysis of legislation, and a final project addressing ways to advance the movement to combat child trafficking in the United States. Scholars and practitioners in the field will provide occasional guest lectures. Section 002 (1-2 credits) The live client experience (LCE) component of this course is available for a select number of students who are interested in augmenting the seminar with experiential work (legal research, advocacy, direct services) that intersects with child trafficking. This can include working on projects at the Center for the Human Rights of Children (CHRC), or placement at an off-site organization providing legal services to human trafficking survivors. Applications for Section 002 are required, and student selection will depend on the number of positions available at selected external sites and CHRC (minimum 6). Participants will be selected by Katherine Kaufka Walts, Director, Center for the Human Rights of Children. While students with a demonstrated interest in this topic will be prioritized, no prior training or experience is required. Note: 1L students are not eligible for LCE credits.