Empowering through language: the impact of what we say (and what we don’t)
The language we use plays a crucial role in how we perceive and relate to others, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like human trafficking. Words have the power to shape perceptions, influence attitudes, and impact the actions we take. This is why it’s important to be intentional with the language we choose, particularly when supporting survivors of human trafficking. By being intentional in our language, we shift the focus away from sensationalism and toward empathy, respect, and empowerment.
When it comes to supporting survivors of human trafficking, “rescue” isn’t a word we reach for. While often well-intentioned, the use of “rescue” can reinforce harmful misconceptions and unintentionally undermine the strength and agency of survivors.
Why we choose not to use the word "rescue"
Imagine a blazing fire tearing through a family home, with firefighters rushing in to extinguish the flames. Or a person suffering a heart attack, saved just in time by paramedics. In these moments, we use the word “rescue” to describe the heroic act of saving someone from immediate danger. The focus is on the rescuer, and the story often ends with a celebration of their bravery.
Despite the commonality of dramatic rescue narratives we see on the big screen, in reality things rarely play out that way. ACT Alberta is not kicking down doors or forcefully removing individuals from exploitative situations.
Many organizations have used, or continue to use, the word "rescue" to describe the work of supporting survivors leaving exploitative situations, often invoking images of heroes helping those in need. While these portrayals can be well-intentioned, the language may not fully capture the complexities of the situation and can unintentionally present some challenges for a few key reasons:
It Reinforces a “Saviour Complex”. Using the word “rescue” shifts the focus from the experience of the survivor to the person providing assistance. This terminology can imply that survivors are passive recipients of aid rather than active participants in their own recovery. The idea of “rescuing” someone can suggest a one-sided act, implying that survivors need saving, rather than recognizing them as strong, capable individuals whose agency matters.
It Overlooks Survivors’ Strength and Resilience. Survivors of human trafficking are incredibly resilient, having developed a powerful set of skills and resources to navigate and cope with traumatic situations. By using rescue-focused language we unintentionally downplay the strength and determination survivors possess.
It Implies a Quick Fix to a Complex Problem. Human trafficking is a complex, multi-faceted human rights abuse that is influenced by systemic inequalities, including poverty, lack of affordable housing, and limited access to mental health support. The term "rescue" can create the impression that simply removing someone from a trafficking situation is enough to resolve the issue, overlooking the ongoing need for trauma-informed care, community support, and resources that address the diverse short- and long-term needs of survivors.
It Diminishes Survivors’ Agency. Survivors of human trafficking have endured unimaginable challenges and shown incredible strength throughout their journey. They deserve to be recognized as the architects of their own lives, empowered to make decisions and reclaim their futures. When we describe their experience as a "rescue," we risk reducing their journey to one where they are passive recipients of help, rather than active participants in their own healing and transformation. By shifting the narrative, we can honor their autonomy and empower them to take ownership of their stories.
What we choose to use instead
ACT Alberta strives to use survivor-centered language that prioritizes dignity and respect. This means choosing words that reflect survivors’ strengths, choices, and resilience.
Instead of saying we “rescue” survivors, we prefer to say that we “support” them and guide them along their path to safety. This shift in language is intentional, as it acknowledges the strength and resilience of survivors, emphasizing that they are active participants in their own healing and recovery. By focusing on support rather than rescue, we highlight the survivor’s autonomy, choice, and agency, reinforcing the idea that their journey is uniquely theirs to navigate. Survivors are not passive recipients of help; they are individuals making empowered decisions about their future. This approach fosters respect for their personal agency, honours their experiences, and helps to shift the narrative from one of dependency to one of empowerment and self-determination.
The importance of language in advocacy
The words we use MATTER. Survivors are the true experts on their own journeys, and it is extremely important that we use language that honours their autonomy. Embracing survivor-centered language is a simple yet powerful way to recognize and validate the strength, resilience, and unique experiences each survivor has. It reinforces that their voices are valued, their choices matter, and they have control over their own path.
We work hard to ensure our language is respectful, sensitive, and accurate. Although finding the right words can be challenging, we are committed to learning and taking responsibility for the language we use.