Millikin University helps lead fight against human trafficking

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – Millikin University is making waves in the fight against human trafficking with its cutting-edge Human Trafficking Research Lab.

The lab is dedicated to studying and combating the issue.

Human Trafficking Research Lab is located in Shilling Hall on Millikin University's campus.

"It's an opportunity for us to do localized research, said Dr. Laura Dean. "I think a lot of people think that trafficking doesn't happen in central Illinois, so this lab is an opportunity for us to look at local data."

Founded in 2018, the Human Trafficking Research Lab provides a platform for students and faculty to collaborate on research projects aimed at uncovering the realities of human trafficking and identifying ways to intervene. Led by Dr. Laura Dean, Millikin Associate Professor of Political Science and the Director of the HTRL, the lab seeks to combine academic research with real-world application, to find community-based solutions.

Human trafficking is a global crisis affecting millions of people, including right here in the Midwest. The lab focuses on both sex trafficking and labor trafficking, providing insight into how these forms of exploitation manifest in Illinois and surrounding states.

The lab offers Millikin students a hands-on opportunity to help tackle the serious societal issue. Students from various disciplines, including psychology, sociology, and criminal justice, are involved in research, data collection, and community outreach efforts.

"If we don't talk about it, it just flies under radar too much," said Maggie Schrage, junior at Millikin University. "I think it's something we have to talk about and we have to bring awareness to for the survivors, and for future survivors."

The team partners with local law enforcement agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy groups to address trafficking at a community level. They also host workshops and training sessions to help people identify and prevent trafficking.

On Jan. 29, Millikin will host it's 8th annual panel discussion on Policing Developments and Challenges for Human Trafficking Prevention Month. The panel will meet at 6 p.m. in Ballroom A/B of the University Commons on campus.

The panel will feature discussions from law enforcement entities on the federal and state levels from around Central Illinois. They will discuss the challenges and opportunities law enforcement faces in policing sex and labor trafficking and the implications of this policing on survivors and victims in our region.

For more about the research and the Human Trafficking Lab, click here.