Courtney Baldwin, a youth organizer and human trafficking survivor, shared her powerful story of resilience and hope, highlighting the pivotal role that Kamala Harris, the former California attorney general, played in her journey towards justice and healing.
Baldwin recounted her harrowing experience of being trafficked for sex across California in 2013, under the control of a manipulative trafficker who exploited her vulnerability. Despite the darkness of those moments, Baldwin clung to hope that she would one day be recognized as more than just a victim and be able to pursue her dreams, while seeking justice against her trafficker.
It was during this tumultuous period that Kamala Harris emerged as a beacon of support and advocacy for survivors like Baldwin. As California's attorney general, Harris took decisive action against Backpage.com, a notorious website that facilitated the buying and selling of individuals, including Baldwin and thousands of others. Harris's efforts led to the filing of criminal charges against the owner of Backpage.com, ultimately resulting in the shutdown of the website.
Reports from 2016 revealed that authorities in California and Texas uncovered cases of adults and children being coerced into prostitution through escort ads on Backpage.com. The arrest of Carl Ferrer in 2016 on charges of pimping children and other offenses underscored the gravity of the situation and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
Baldwin expressed her unwavering admiration and gratitude towards Harris, emphasizing that the former attorney general's dedication to protecting and advocating for survivors has been a source of hope and inspiration. Baldwin firmly believes that Harris's commitment to justice and empowerment will continue to benefit individuals like her and the broader community, instilling confidence in her ability to champion their cause as a potential future president.
