Honoring Jaha Dukureh: A Champion of Women's Rights at CATW's Annual Fundraiser Event

Celebrating Jaha Dukureh at CATW's Annual Fundraiser

On December 9, 2024, the Coalition Against Trafficking in Women (CATW) hosted its annual fundraising event titled 'A Vision for Equality: Celebrating Changemakers for Women and Girls' at Glasshouse on the Park in New York City. The event, co-chaired by notable figures such as Ingrid von Ahn, Alexi Ashe Meyers, and Deshi Singh, aimed to raise essential funds and awareness regarding the trafficking and sexual exploitation of women and girls, both locally in New York and across the globe.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Sojourner Truth Abolitionist Award to Jaha Dukureh, a prominent advocate for women’s rights. Meryl Streep, the Academy Award-winning actress, delivered a heartfelt tribute via video, emphasizing Dukureh's journey and the importance of her work.

Jaha Dukureh, originally from The Gambia, has become a beacon of hope for many. As a survivor of female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage – both forms of human trafficking – she has dedicated her life to championing the rights of women and girls. Dukureh is the founder of Safe Hands for Girls, an organization that provides crucial support and resources for African women and girls affected by such heinous practices. Additionally, her role as UN Women's first Goodwill Ambassador for Africa underscores her commitment to ending gender-based violence and promoting gender equality.

The event also featured a thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by Emmy-winning writer and late-night host Seth Meyers. Participants included Dukureh, CATW's Executive Director Taina Bien-Aimé, and Melanie Thompson, a brave survivor leader and CATW's Outreach and Advocacy Coordinator. Together, they engaged in a candid dialogue about their lived experiences and the urgent need for systemic changes to protect vulnerable populations from trafficking and exploitation.

Founded in 1988, CATW has been a pioneer in advocating against the trafficking and sexual exploitation of women and girls. Their approach, which intertwines women's rights and human rights principles, is vital in fostering awareness, promoting robust legislation, and empowering survivor leadership. The organization’s efforts have garnered significant recognition and support from diverse stakeholders, further strengthening the resolve to combat these pressing issues.

As the evening unfolded, the stories of resilience and transformation echoed through the venue, reminding attendees of the ongoing fight against gender-based violence and the importance of solidarity in this battle. The coalition's endeavors resonate not just within the confines of the event but also ignite broader discussions around these critical issues facing our society today.

With champions like Jaha Dukureh leading the way, the path forward becomes clearer. Events like CATW’s annual fundraiser not only highlight individual struggles and triumphs but also serve as powerful platforms to galvanize support for systemic change and uplift the voices of those who have been silenced for far too long. Together, participants took a moment to reaffirm their commitment to lasting change and to honor the bravery of survivors everywhere.

Overall, the event stood as a testament to the incredible impact that advocacy, awareness, and community support can yield in the fight against human trafficking and the promotion of women’s rights across the globe.