A collaborative study which aims to uncover the places implicated in domestic sex trafficking – an indusry which remains largely unseen by the public eye. The study employs a Multi-Disciplinary, Multi-sectoral, Collaborative Engagement approach, in which our research cluster joined forces with those already working in the local community to end sex trafficking. In unravelling the mysteries surrounding the “placeness” of sex trafficking, we were able to determine the role that spatial design can play in both prevention and healing of sex trade victims – thereby positioning design as a medium for social justice.
By Tasoulla Hadjiyanni Ph.D., Melanie Povlitzki B.S. and Hannah Preble B.S.
Published March 4, 2014 in the Journal of Interior Design
Access the full article here.
A model of our Multi-Disciplinary, Multi-sectoral, Collaborative Engagement approach.
Although sex trafficking thrives in a constant state of motion, the following places have been noted as “hot spots” where the physical acts most often take place: Brothels, Strip clubs, Massage parlours, Transit spaces, Airports, Gas stations, Bathrooms, Restaurants, Bars, Hotels, Motels &Private residences.
This apartment building in Minneapolis (left) serves as an entry point into the sex trade for many young Somalian girls, while the unsuspecting suburban home (right) was discovered to be part of a major sex trafficking ring in Minneapolis.
Our research uncovered a variety of sex trafficking issues that are relevant to spatial design, including possible ways to reduce and prevent it. Further study is required to explore more concrete spatial solutions.
Stand alone restrooms (far left) are easier for traffickers to use due to increased privacy. Multiple stalls in the bathroom (left center) reduce the potential of illegal activity. The cashier does not have a direct view of the bathroom area for monitoring (right center). The openness of the gas station on the far right allows for greater supervision.
Ground floor hotel rooms and windows (left) are conducive to direct room access. Back doors of hotel buildings (center) allow entrance into the facility without going through the front lobby. Most chain hotels rooms look alike (right). If the aesthetics of each room were distinguished by color, furniture or layout, hotelliers could more easily recognize their rooms in the “Backpage Ads” and pinpoint where trafficking is taking place.
During the recovery process, the needs of sex trafficking victims vary from those of other posttraumatic stress patients. Our Healing Spaces Model provides a starting point for designers and care providers in creating thereputic environemnts for victims.
