January marks National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time when advocates and survivors raise awareness about this pressing issue. In Tucson, Arizona, Monica Perkins, a survivor of human trafficking, is using her personal journey to shine a light on the devastating realities faced by many. Through poetry and art, she aims to educate the public and inspire others to join the fight against trafficking.
Perkins, now 39 years old, endured eight years of trafficking after being lured into a predatory relationship at the age of 17. Her experiences are showcased in a downtown art exhibit titled “Every Step Has a Story – How We Got In, How We Got Out, Who We Are Now.” In this exhibit, she shares her journey through a powerful poem entitled “Against All the Odds.”
Reflecting on her early experiences, Perkins describes how meeting her first predator in a group home in San Francisco altered the course of her life. “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,” Perkins recalled. “I was instantly enthralled by the whole situation.”
Tragically, after giving birth to her son, Dondre Cannon, Perkins was forced into prostitution when he was only four months old. “I was handed a purse full of rubber gloves, condoms, and lube, and told what I was going to be doing for how much,” she said. This marked the beginning of a harrowing period characterized by isolation and abuse. Perkins was stripped of her autonomy, with her phone taken away and access to her son severely limited.
“The family I once knew didn’t exist anymore,” Perkins explained. “This is my new life. This is how we go forward.” Despite the overwhelming control exerted by her traffickers, Perkins made her son’s well-being a priority, ultimately escaping at the age of 25.
Now, through her poetry, she advocates for others who have suffered similar fates. “As survivors, it’s up to us to unite and fight for what’s right. It’s a grueling dedication to heal while trying to properly function minute by minute, day by day,” Perkins expressed. She emphasizes the importance of sharing her story to help others find hope and healing. “If I can’t use it to help somebody else, then it was all for nothing,” she stated.
Perkins also encourages individuals to take action when they witness signs of trafficking. “There are so many people that could have stepped in and saved my life,” she said. “Even if they weren’t able to save my life, at least they could have tried.”
The art exhibit, curated by fellow survivor Angela Marie, aims to provide a platform for victims to reclaim their voices. “To see them stepping out confidently and sharing who they are—not what they are, not what they’ve been through—reminds them they have a voice,” Marie said. She highlights the significance of solidarity among survivors as they navigate their healing journeys together.
Perkins and her children, Dondre, now 21, and Arianna Perkins, 15, are also collaborating with organizations like Southern Arizona Against Slavery (SAAS) to support others affected by human trafficking. SAAS President Norma Darnell, also a survivor, emphasizes their mission to empower individuals through mentorship. “We are a safe place, and we will love you wherever you’re at in your journey,” Darnell said.
The art exhibit is located at the 7 Legged Spider Gallery inside the Steinfeld Warehouse at 101 W. 6th St. in downtown Tucson. It is open on Saturdays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. throughout January, with appointments available for special viewings. For more information, interested parties can contact Angela Marie via Instagram at @angela_marie_arts.
In addition to the exhibit, a Human Trafficking Awareness Walk is scheduled for January 19, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., starting at the northwest corner of Reid Park. This event aims to further raise awareness and encourage community involvement in combating human trafficking.
