Jul Jones | Speaker & Survivor Advocate

Some of what I’m about to say about my experience with human trafficking may make people uncomfortable. Good. I’m speaking anyway—for myself and for women abused in NYC nightlife who were bullied into silence.

A paid bill doesn’t buy access to someone’s autonomy, body, or silence. “You knew what you were getting into” and “She‘s crazy“ is a tired excuse and isn’t a defense for deception, coercion, or abuse.

I was sold one story and later uncovered hidden names, conflicting dates of birth, concealed history, and unanswered questions. Calling it “just a scam” doesn’t magically erase the control or harm I experienced. Newsflash scams are part of human trafficking and are used to keep the victim in a controlled environment.

I’ve experienced verbal and physical attacks, yet some people would rather question my mental stability than examine the conduct I’m reporting. Apparently, accountability is exhausting, but victim blaming fits everyone’s schedule.

Call me “crazy.” I’m still asking the questions.

Running a red light without getting caught doesn’t make it legal. It means you got through that intersection without consequences. Learn the difference before confusing someone’s ability to avoid accountability with innocence.

No one gets to rewrite my identity, change my ethnicity, speak for me or decide what treatment I should accept.

My standards are intact. My voice works beautifully. And my silence is unavailable.

I’m speaking, and I’m not stopping. 🖤🩷

#stopnormalizingexploitation #humantraffickingawareness #coercivecontrol