Mission: WASE Forward is a Washington initiative to promote policies and practices that enhance support and justice for people with lived experience of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation.
Substitute Senate Bill 5114
WASE Forward is thrilled to announce that Governor Inslee signed Substitute Senate Bill 5114 on May 4, 2023, providing an infusion of funding for culturally responsive and survivor-centered programs that will support adults who have experienced sex trafficking in Washington. This bill was written specifically by and for survivors of adult sex trafficking and marks a significant milestone for WASE Forward. We’re honored to have played a role in bringing this legislation to fruition and remain committed to advancing the well-being of survivors in Washington.
In 2023 SSB 5114 passed to support adults, over the age of 18, with lived experience of sex trafficking by funding Healing ,Support and Transition Services. Adults are eligible for support and services if they have experienced sex trafficking as an adult or as a child or youth (under the age of 18).
Healing, support and transition services mean safe and trauma-informed services that are tailored to the self determined needs of each individual.
Download the “Healing Support & Transition Services Purpose & Services Provided” and for more information on the 12 recipients | PDF
WASE Forward is proud to be recognized as the 2022 Organization Human Rights Leader by the Seattle Human Rights Commission.
We are a grassroots movement working to strengthen policies and systems for those experiencing sex trafficking and exploitation. We advocate and amplify human rights by lifting up the voices of our most vulnerable communities in Washington state.
What We are Doing for 2024
WASE Forward Primary Goal: To Utilize community engagement as a prevention method for sex trafficking and CSE.
Host 6 conversations with the community on the topics of CSE and human trafficking.
Host 4 survivor community workshops
Host 4 advocacy training events
Host 8 WASE Forward partner meetings to keep them informed, involved and activated.
45 meetings with WASE leadership team.
Actively outreach 10 groups to ask for support of WASE Forward’s policies
Post 6 Public Service Announcement (PSA) videos about the harms of full decriminalization
Implement social media toolkit that helps viewers (1) learn the signs; (2) speak to survivors; and (3) know The Equality Model
iHeart Radio earned media (radio commercial) campaign (May 20 – June 10)