University of Toledo on Cusp of Groundbreaking Human Trafficking Initiative

During a University of Toledo Board of Trustees meeting Monday afternoon, State Rep. Teresa Fedor (D-Toledo) and several leaders of the community presented a proposal for the establishment of a Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute within the College of Social Justice and Human Service at the University of Toledo.

“It was an honor to address members of the University of Toledo’s Board of Trustees,” said Rep. Fedor. “The Human Trafficking and Social Justice Institute will build on the landmark research and prestigious work of UT Professor Dr. Celia Williamson, and it will have a profound impact, not just locally, but worldwide. As the only one of its kind, the work of this institute will go a long way towards rescuing and restoring victims, as well as aiding in the prosecution of the criminals.”

For the past nine years, Rep. Fedor has been a leading advocate in the fight to end human trafficking. Most recently, Rep. Fedor passed Sub. H.B. 130, the End Demand Act. In 2012, the General Assembly passed Rep. Fedor’s Safe Harbor Act – a victim centered bill aimed at providing protection, prosecution and prevention. And while in the Senate, Fedor passed Ohio’s first bill to define human trafficking and make it illegal, Senate Bill 235.