January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Put quite simply, it’s a time for us to reflect on a quiet epidemic that has plagued our country — and Tennessee — for decades. Cue NAHT (Nashville Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition), an organization created to shine a light on the ongoing struggle that affects all of us, whether we realize it or not. Please welcome NAHT founder, Mary Trapnell, as this week’s FACE of Nashville.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background?
As a native of Middle Tennessee, a graduate of Vanderbilt University, and a parent who raised three boys in Nashville, I am committed to seeing Nashville flourish as a Southern city known for its beauty, vibrant music, sports programs, healthcare, strong educational institutions, and safe communities for children and families.
What inspired you to pursue the human trafficking nonprofit field?
I heard that children living in a homeless community near Interstate 24 were being bought and sold to men at a local truck stop. This information was shocking and deeply troubling. I immediately knew I had to be a part of the solution. Not certain what my role would be, but willing to help, I began looking for pathways to serve these child victims and bring justice to the perpetrators.
What is the history the Nashville Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition (NAHT)?
NAHT began as a 50-person-strong Christ Presbyterian Church missional community that supported the work of two local anti-human trafficking agencies — Thistle Farms and End Slavery Tennessee. I traveled throughout Tennessee, interviewing victims, studying models of care, and serving several local communities where victims lived.
Two years later, we accepted a $50,000 gift from DeAnna Smith, CEO of the Sarah Cannon Cancer Center, and responded to her charge to formalize as a nonprofit and multiply her gift and the work we were doing with victims. We have been a growing and thriving 501(c)(3) since September 2019.
What is the organization’s mission?
To rescue, restore, and resource women and children from the bondage of human trafficking and addiction.
Speaking of addiction, the NAHT website states, “A woman has not been freed from human trafficking until she has been freed from addiction.” Can you tell us more about that?
The human trafficking industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry selling an experience with drugs and sex. Almost 100% of the victims we serve battle substance addiction. When drugs are available and [seemingly needed] to survive, victims often take a “hit” before they negotiate a price for their body, during the experience, and immediately afterward. Weaning from drugs is scary and hard — but critical — if a victim is going to be free from the trauma bonds they have with their traffickers and the industry.
What is something you wish more people understood about human trafficking?
It is massive in scale and targets every family in our community. It hunts victims through the internet and has the power to pierce through every economic, educational, and religious bubble. Most victims in the U.S. are groomed by someone they know, such as a peer, coach, teacher, religious figure, or family member.
What can we do to help further the mission?
KNOW, GROW, GO!
- Sign up on the NAHT Coalition website for a monthly Zoom training to learn more about human trafficking. Then, advocate for an NAHT thriver-led and student-informed presentation at a local school or community group so that the most vulnerable among us — middle and high school students — can KNOW how to recognize trafficking.
- Join NAHT on the frontlines by becoming a monthly donor. You will help NAHT GROW the resources needed to daily GO into the fight against human trafficking and [support] victims in our community. Donations can be made on our website, nahtcoalition.org, and donor tours can be coordinated at [email protected].
When you aren’t working, what do you do for self-care?
I am walking Warner Parks, listening to some of my favorite Christian artists like Chris Tomlin, Zach Williams, CeCe Winans, and Charity Gayle, as well as some good ol’ Motown music. You can be certain that I will also be practicing an “attitude of gratitude” that starts with thanking Jesus for His amazing grace and mercy that has the power to save and provide hope that “with God, all things are possible.”
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Some of the last words my mom spoke to me were, “Don’t ever be ashamed of Jesus Christ. He has the power to rescue, restore, and provide hope for all who put their trust in Him.”
Outside of faith, family, and friends, what are three things you cannot live without?
My walking shoes, readers, and a glass of fruit tea!
LIGHTNING ROUND
What is the last memorable book you read?
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an 1845 memoir and treatise on abolition written by former slave Frederick Douglass.
What is your most recent favorite meal at a local restaurant, and where were you?
Geist in Germantown.
What is your favorite hidden gem in Nashville?
AshBlue in Green Hills.
What location is at the top of your travel bucket list?
The Amalfi Coast for my 60th birthday!
All photos courtesy of NAHT’s Social Media and Marketing Manager, Madie Michel.
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