Several weeks ago I was able to attend a conference about the work done by Hagar International.  I had a great time learning more about human trafficking and the philosophy of Hagar’s work in Cambodia, Vietnam and Afghanistan.  Hagar takes a very holistic approach to providing rehabilitation for survivors of trafficking and other human rights abuse.  It was great to hear from leaders of Hagar and other organizations telling before and after stories about women who have been in Hagar’s care and testifying to the restoration that is possible! Here is a letter from Hagar USA’s Executive Director about the recent progress in Vietnam:

Twelve Vietnamese women have begun to make sense of their own stories.  Hagar Vietnam has completed its first week of direct services to survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.  The first week focused on personal empowerment in a safe environment.  There were tears and sadness but also displays of tremendous courage.  Most women used crayons and paints for the first time, illustrating their pasts and symbols for their envisioned futures.  The next step will be job readiness skills and vocational training.  This is an exciting new phase.  Despite their traumatic pasts, 12 women will develop a sustainable means to support themselves.

We are excited to announce this launch of Hagar Vietnam, based in Hanoi. In Vietnam, there is nearly a total lack of programs enabling marginalized women to achieve economic independence.  To fill this gap, we are working through partnerships with the government, technical schools and businesses.

Prior to last week, activities have focused on training staff at two existing shelters to deliver client-focused services.  As with all Hagar programming, our goal is to facilitate a future of hope, resilience, and dignity for women who have suffered great injustices.  We promise to keep you updated as our work proceeds.

An important part of Hagar’s approach is providing economic empowerment to enable long term resilience.  Hagar trains their clients in various job skills and many of the women in Cambodia learn to make handbags.  That’s where Stop Traffick Fashion comes in!  Buying handbags from Hagar Design plays an important role in providing hope to these survivors.  We encourage you to find out more about supporting them directly as well.

About Emily

Emily founded Stop Traffick Fashion in 2009. She’d been becoming more and more involved in the abolitionist movement, and she decided to start STF as an opportunity to bring together the best of all products made by survivors of trafficking. She hopes her response to trafficking will inspire others to take action, even in a small way. Emily lives in Cincinnati, enjoys traveling, and has visited Hagar International and StopStart in Cambodia.

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