The Long-Standing Epidemic of Sex Trafficking in San Diego Tribal Communities

Abstract

Human trafficking is a nationwide epidemic deeply involved at the community-based level. Intensifying generationally, the continual separation of reservations from neighboring areas in number of crimes such as human trafficking is significant. Evaluating the foundational struggles of Indigenous communities in San Diego, we see how traffickers can exploit these vulnerabilities to better their pursuits. Originally stemming from gender inequalities between White males and Indigenous females, the historical trauma that is rooted in these communities continue to allow Indigenous women to be victimized at disproportionately higher rates. While attention is now being placed on the matter, issues within tribal sovereignty continue to threaten the women living on reservations in San Diego and around the country.