January marks National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the pervasive issue of human trafficking. In Tucson, Arizona, one survivor is taking a stand by sharing her powerful story through poetry and art. Monica Perkins, 39, endured eight harrowing years of trafficking that began when she was just 17 years old. Her experience is highlighted in an art exhibit titled “Every Step Has a Story – How We Got In, How We Got Out, Who We Are Now,” where she expresses her journey through a poignant poem named “Against All the Odds.”
Perkins’s story is a testament to resilience. She fled an abusive relationship while pregnant, only to find herself trapped in a cycle of exploitation. Reflecting on her early encounters, she recalls, “The day that I met him, he took me around and showed me some of his houses. He had a nice car, he told me he was a rap producer.” At that moment, Perkins did not realize the dangers that lay ahead.
After giving birth to her son, Dondre Cannon, her life spiraled further into darkness when he was taken from her at just four months old. She was coerced into prostitution, handed a purse filled with rubber gloves and condoms, and dropped off at a strip club. Perkins faced not only physical abuse but also psychological manipulation, leading to profound isolation. “My cell phone was taken away and I was told I was being monitored,” she explained.
The struggle to escape was daunting, but reuniting with her son became her driving force. Perkins managed to break free at 25 and has since dedicated her life to raising awareness about human trafficking. Her poetry conveys a message of hope: “As survivors, it’s up to us to unite and fight for what’s right. Stand tall and turn our pain into power.”
Perkins aims to empower others who have faced similar trials. She emphasizes the importance of speaking out and urges bystanders to take action when they witness injustices. “There are so many people that could have stepped in and saved my life,” she lamented. Her words reflect a painful reality: many victims suffer in silence, often overlooked by those who could help.
The exhibit’s curator, Angela Marie, who is also a survivor, underscores the importance of providing a platform for victims. “Being able to walk with other survivors and see them begin to own their own lives again is crucial,” she noted. Marie’s efforts aim to remind survivors that they have a voice and can reclaim their identities.
Perkins’ family now stands by her side. Along with her son, now 21, and her 15-year-old daughter, Arianna, she collaborates with organizations like Southern Arizona Against Slavery (SAAS). This nonprofit focuses on mentoring and empowering survivors of sexual exploitation and human trafficking, helping them find their strengths.
Norma Darnell, SAAS President and a survivor herself, extends an invitation to those in need: “I know that you’ve learned how to build walls and not to trust, but we are a safe place, and we will love you wherever you’re at in your journey.”
The art exhibit is located at the 7 Legged Spider Gallery in the Steinfeld Warehouse, 101 W. 6th St., Tucson, and will be open throughout January on Saturdays from 1:00 to 16:00 and by special appointment. For more information, interested visitors can reach out to Angela Marie on Instagram at @angela_marie_arts.
Additionally, a Human Trafficking Awareness Walk is scheduled for January 19, 2024, at 09:00, starting at the northwest corner of Reid Park. This event aims to further raise awareness and encourage community involvement in combating human trafficking.
Through her poetry and advocacy, Monica Perkins continues to transform her pain into a powerful call for action, inspiring hope and change in the fight against human trafficking.
