09/11/2026
Human trafficking is happening in our communities, and responding to it requires all of us to come together. This gathering brought survivors, community partners, and Congressman Troy Downing to the same table to listen, learn, and strengthen the response here in Yellowstone County and beyond.
We are grateful for the Yellowstone County Human Trafficking Task Force and Journey2Empowerment for the crucial work they continue to do in our community, and the survivors who courageously came to the table and shared their lived experience. Their voices matter and should always be part of shaping the systems, resources, and solutions intended to serve survivors.
Human trafficking is complex, and no single organization or program can be the answer. It takes prevention, awareness, law enforcement, intervention, treatment, long-term recovery, and strong partnerships working together.
We are grateful Congressman Downing took the time to listen to what we are seeing on the ground, ask questions, and talk about where federal advocacy and policy can help remove barriers and strengthen the response.
There is still so much work ahead, but we are thankful we get to do it alongside people who are committed to seeing survivors have real opportunities for safety, healing, recovery, and lasting freedom.