Human sex trafficking is not just a crime in Third World Countries. A common misconception is that it doesn’t happen where you live. But experts say that just isn’t true. It’s a problem that’s happening in communities across the country and it’s a problem that’s hidden in plain sight.
Now one survivor is speaking out, revealing the myths surrounding sex trafficking.
Kim Belew wants the world to know that the poor, abused, lonely teenager you might picture in your mind is not the only child falling victim to sex trafficking.
“I was in a very strict, religious family. My stepdad was an elder in our church, and also sold liquor for a living. He is who trafficked me, and he passed me off to men in the back rooms of liquor stores and bars,” explained Belew.
The abuse began when Belew was 11.
“I can just say there were hundreds of men that this happened with. Being taken to have two abortions, my stepdad would say like, ‘This is just a normal dad, daughter thing.’ I didn’t know I was trafficked until seven years ago. So that’s how much of a myth is around human trafficking,” said Belew.
Now, it’s her mission to dispel the myths surrounding sex trafficking.
First, it doesn’t just happen to children who are kidnapped. Many survivors were trafficked by family, even spouses.
Also, it can happen to any child, from any background and it can, and is happening, in your hometown.
Belew is now working to help medical professionals identify and help victims.
“One thing that I learned that she shares is that she would not have disclosed at the time that it was happening,” said Angela Brown, a pediatric nurse practitioner.
Belew also discusses triggers, simple things such as hospital gowns that leave victims feeling vulnerable.
Brown said her facility is now offering scrubs for victims.
Belew found her voice at church as part of the choir and is now a spiritual leader in the congregation and hopes that sharing her story will save others.
“I can’t even believe that I’m here, but it’s also really healing, and I get to be here and stand in my power and also empower others,” said Belew.
Belew’s stepfather and mother died in a car accident and never faced charges.
Belew said she still suffers from trauma and PTSD and continues therapy but instead of her past consuming her, she has control of her emotions.
If you need help or know someone who needs help, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.