Human Trafficking in Focus: The Intersection of Advocacy, Family, and Justice | Chair Chat

This Chair Chat examines human trafficking as a civil rights and social justice crisis, focusing on how exploitation has evolved over the past six decades and why prevention must address root causes, not only prosecution. Patrick Erlandson, founder of the See It. End It. Film & Arts Festival and FatherCon, joins Beth Whittenbury to discuss the internet’s role in modern trafficking, the limits of current legal frameworks, and the lasting harm to victims and communities.

Erlandson shares insights from years of prevention work, highlighting trauma, vulnerability, and the critical role of fathers and family stability in protecting children. The conversation underscores the power of storytelling through film and art, cautions against unintended consequences of well-meaning laws, and closes with practical guidance for lawyers on trauma-informed practice, survivor-centered advocacy, and supporting prevention efforts.

Patrick Erlandson – Founder, See it. End it. Film & Arts Festival and Father-Con
Beth K. Whittenbury (Moderator) – Past Chair, ABA Section of Civil Rights and Social Justice; College Lecturer, California State University-Dominguez Hills

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During the 2025–26 Bar Year, Section Chair Mario A. Sullivan continues CRSJ’s Chair Chat – bringing together leading lawyers, scholars, advocates, and organizers to tackle the most urgent civil rights and rule-of-law issues and share practical strategies for impact. New episodes premiere every other Thursday at 2:00 p.m. ET on our YouTube channel. Subscribe for updates and catch past conversations on-demand.

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