Steady in Purpose

Before the first session begins, I want to take a moment to simply be here.

This morning, I’m choosing to pause.
To ground myself in the purpose of this series — and in the gratitude I feel for how it has come together.

Tonight, we begin Uprooting Trafficking, a three-part series created to:

• Raise awareness of human trafficking and sexual exploitation
• Support understanding of the healing journey for survivors
• And help people take meaningful, tangible action in this global crisis

Over the past months, something remarkable has unfolded.

We now have 14 speakers from 13 organizations across Canada and beyond — survivors, advocates, service providers, community leaders. Each of them offering their time, experience, and insight so that others may understand more deeply.

We are endorsed by the Federated Women’s Institutes of Canada, at the national level.
We are joined by Councillor Lily Cheng, City of Toronto, and Fenicia Lewis-Dowlin, who leads End Trafficking TO.
We have received support from MPP Laurie Scott, whose leadership has directly shaped anti-trafficking legislation in Canada.

And this has all been made possible through partnership and trust:

• Ishani, who co-created this series with clarity, compassion, and conviction.
• Alex, whose steady coordination and care have guided every detail behind the scenes.

This morning, I am not thinking about the next steps, outcomes, or expectations.
I am here — in the present moment — acknowledging what it took to arrive.

I am grateful for everyone who registered.​
For every person who is choosing to learn.
For every person who believes that awareness, understanding, and community action matter.

Where the work leads next will come in time.

But today is about being steady in purpose.
Grounded in gratitude.
Clear about why we are here.

Thank you for being part of this.

Rooted in purpose,
​Tamara