Sunita Jain

Mission 

We are an evidence-based, community-informed think tank that intentionally fills gaps in human trafficking through an intersectional framework that fosters systemic change and progressive policy innovations.

Vision 

SJI envisions a world free from human trafficking and exploitation, where every individual can pursue self-determination without the threat of force, fraud, or coercion. Our ultimate goal is to prevent trafficking and create a future where it is eliminated entirely.

Values 

At SJI, our work is guided by a commitment to equity, collaboration, and transformative change. These values shape our approach to preventing human trafficking and supporting survivors in their pursuit of empowerment and justice:

• Focus on all forms of human trafficking to ensure the most marginalized are visible.
• Work in partnership with survivors and their communities.
• Centered, informed and driven by impacted communities.
• Adopt an intersectional approach to understanding the diverse experiences of human trafficking survivors.
• Advance policy innovations and systems change utilizing a multi-disciplinary approach.
• Seek a non-carceral approach to preventing human trafficking.
• Apply a critical evidence and community informed lens to anticipate and prevent unintended consequences.
• Strive daily for tangible impact.

Strategy

We implement and support anti-trafficking strategies through a comprehensive lens that incorporates environmental, immigrant, economic, and racial justice. By recognizing the interconnectedness of these issues, we address how environmental damage, immigrant challenges, economic struggles, and racial inequalities all contribute to trafficking. Our approach focuses on creating policies that protect the environment, support immigrant rights, reduce poverty, and confront systemic racism, with the goal of preventing trafficking and helping those most at risk. 

Reflections From Lived-Experience Experts