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A resolution recognizing January 2026 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Nashville and Davidson County.
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WHEREAS, human trafficking is a heinous act that involves the exploitation of adults and children for sex or labor and harms public safety and health; and
WHEREAS, victims and survivors of trafficking often endure physical and psychological abuse, inadequate living conditions, and a lack of basic freedoms; and
WHEREAS, efforts have increased in Nashville and Davidson County to combat human trafficking, including through state and local governments and local non-profits; and
WHEREAS, the Davidson County General Sessions Court has offered Athena’s Court, a treatment court for survivors of human trafficking and those at risk of sexual exploitation who suffer from extreme trauma and/or with substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health issues; and
WHEREAS, the treatment court was formed in January 2016 as Cherished H.E.A.R.T.S. at the suggestion of Assistant District Attorneys Tammy Meade and Deb Smith, who returned to Nashville after a conference with the idea of starting a treatment court for justice-involved survivors of human trafficking; and
WHEREAS, the program's strategic approach allows victims of sexual trauma to reduce the psychological harm of traditional court processes, connects participants with services, and provides an opportunity for victims of sexual trauma to leave their exploiter; and
WHEREAS, Athena’s Court, now presided over by Judge Ana L. Escobar, will celebrate its 10th anniversary in February 2026, and it Is fitting and proper for the Metropolitan Council to recognize the treatment court for its decade of conscientious service to Nashville and Davidson County; and
WHEREAS, Human Trafficking Awareness Month provides an opportunity to recognize the critical partnership state and local governments, victim service providers, law enforcement agencies, and other organizations, along with the role of all Nashville and Davidson County residents to prevent and respond to these crimes and to serve victims and survivors.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing January 2026 as Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Nashville and Davidson County and recognizing the 10th anniversary of Athena’s Court in the Davidson County General Sessions Court.
Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.