Spotlight |Hannah Forys

This month's local human trafficking abolitionist is Hannah Forys. Hannah is the Clinical Specialist with End Slavery Cincinnati, where she works directly with survivors of sexual violence and exploitation. Her days consist of facilitating psycho-educational groups that include prevention/education surrounding sexual exploitation and support for those who have already experienced exploitation, and checking in on clients who may need a little extra assistance. Additionally, she is on rotation with the Greater Cincinnati Human Trafficking Hotline, where the public can call in to report signs of human trafficking and survivors can seek assistance.

While some human trafficking abolitionists found their way to the anti-human trafficking movement through other avenues, Hannah has always been passionate about helping survivors of sexual violence. She received both her bachelor's and master's degrees in Social Work from the University of Southern Indiana with the specific intention of work with survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Previously, she worked as a crisis intervention advocate at a shelter in Indiana. The shelter mainly took in those fleeing domestic violence situations and served those who were escaping from human trafficking. She also co-founded her campus's chapter of "It's On Us," a group that combats sexual violence on college campuses.

When she's not working, Hannah recognizes that it's essential to prioritize her mental health due to the nature of her job. To unwind, she likes to immerse herself in all kinds of art. She also likes to read and spend time with her two lovely black cats, Thea and Milo. Thanks for all your hard work, Hannah!