Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan responds to Government of Saskatchewan’s funding for 2025 Human Trafficking Summit
Making a ChangeSexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS) welcomes the Government of Saskatchewan’s announcement to contribute $100,000 toward The Maddison Sessions, a human trafficking summit hosted by #NotInMyCity, which will take place in Saskatoon in spring 2025. The funding commitment is part of the provincial government’s broader strategy to address interpersonal violence.
“SASS is pleased that The Maddison Sessions is coming to Saskatoon, and we are encouraged by the Government of Saskatchewan’s commitment to this vital cause. Human trafficking is a serious and prevalent issue within the broader spectrum of sexual violence, which continues to be a pervasive problem in our province,” said Kerrie Isaac, SASS executive director.
Founded by Paul Brandt, #NotInMyCity and the summit aim to bring together frontline investigators, including police officers and crown prosecutors, to strengthen networks and share resources to combat human trafficking and sexual exploitation across Canada. The Maddison Sessions is named in memory of Maddison Fraser, who tragically lost her life as a victim of human trafficking in Alberta. Previous sessions were held in Lake Louise, Alberta, in 2023 and Kelowna, British Columbia, in 2024.
“While we are pleased to see progress on the issue of human trafficking in our province, we also need to ensure the community is engaged in processes and events to address the issue. The Maddison Sessions, and initiatives like it, should involve community participation. When we work together at all levels, we accomplish far more,” said Isaac.
SASS member agency, Hope Restored Canada, is a community-based organization providing support to people who have been exploited and trafficked. Based in Saskatoon, Hope Restored is an example of how communities can address human trafficking through survivor support through safe housing, healing programs, education and skill building.
Isaac emphasized that while the funding is a positive step, more needs to be done to address human trafficking and sexual violence in all its forms. “We must continue to expand our efforts to combat all forms of sexual violence. Every person in Saskatchewan deserves to live without fear of violence in their lives.”
SASS remains committed to working with government, law enforcement, and other partners to address the root causes of sexual violence and support survivors across Saskatchewan.
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Contact:
Tal Marsolais
Communications and Community Engagement Specialist
tal@sassk.ca
306.757.1941