We are dedicated abolitionists working to end modern slavery through awareness, prevention, advocacy, and restoration. Every life matters, and together we can make a difference.
Learn about our mission to combat human trafficking in Southwest Louisiana
The driving force behind SWLA Abolitionists' mission to end human trafficking
CEO & Founder
"I'm Rusty Havens, CEO of SWLA Abolitionists. I discovered the reality of human trafficking at a college conference in 2011, and shortly after, helped rescue a victim right outside of Lake Charles."
"When people told me trafficking didn't exist here, I knew better. I founded SWLA Abolitionists to expose the truth, support survivors, and equip our community—from teachers to law enforcement—to take action."
"Since then, we've trained thousands, passed key legislation, and helped rescue and restore countless lives."
"I invite you to join us—because human trafficking is here, but so are we."
SWLA Abolitionists is dedicated to ending human trafficking through comprehensive action, community education, and unwavering advocacy for survivors.
We educate communities about the reality of human trafficking, dispelling myths and showing how close this issue can be to home.
We focus on educating vulnerable populations and those likely to encounter trafficking situations about warning signs and prevention.
We help survivors rebuild their lives by connecting them with resources for housing, employment, education, and healing.
Modern slavery exists in our communities. It's time to take action.
Get InvolvedWatch this important video and read survivor stories to understand the reality of human trafficking.
These stories contain sensitive content. Please approach with care and compassion.
Understanding different forms of human trafficking helps us recognize, prevent, and combat these crimes in our communities.
Forced labor is hidden in plain sight—right here in Louisiana. From crawfish plants to construction sites, victims are exploited through threats, abuse, and unpaid work. Many everyday products are tied to slave labor—learn the signs, ask questions, and speak up.
This lesser-known crime involves the illegal removal and sale of organs, often targeting vulnerable people through deception or coercion. It happens worldwide, including the U.S.—proof that no place is immune.
Sex trafficking is the most reported type in the U.S., with many victims being American children. It's happening locally in brothels, fake massage parlors, and online ads—but progress is being made through community action and awareness.
South Florida once had a reputation for slavery and abuse in farm fields. The Fair Food Program changed that by creating accountability among workers, growers, and buyers—proving ethical food is possible when we all get involved.
Happens to the elderly & people with disabilities. Traffickers pretend to be caregivers & take away food stamps, social security, retirement, veteran benefits & even force them into other types of trafficking like labor or sex.
Understanding these different forms of trafficking helps us all become part of the solution.
Our comprehensive approach addresses every aspect of combating human trafficking from prevention to restoration.
We raise awareness through local events, media interviews, billboards, and publications to educate communities about human trafficking.
We educate vulnerable populations and those likely to encounter trafficking situations about warning signs and prevention steps.
We advocate for protective laws, rally citizen support, and work directly with legislators to create change.
For children's cases, we facilitate connections with trusted law enforcement and anti-trafficking organizations.
We help survivors rebuild their lives by providing resources for housing, employment, education, and healing.
Join us in the fight against human trafficking. Together, we can create lasting change in Southwest Louisiana and beyond.
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Ready to join the fight against human trafficking? Contact us today to learn how you can make a difference in Southwest Louisiana.
Hear from our supporters who believe in the critical mission of ending human trafficking
SWLAA Donor
"There's nothing more important on this earth than human life and no cause that pulls at my heart stronger than the abolition of human trafficking. I'm so grateful to have a passionate force here in SWLA determined to fight for justice."
'Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.' – MLK
Supporter
"The idea of trafficking another individual, especially children and teens, is abhorrent. We must do all we can to end human trafficking ASAP. All people have inherent rights such as liberty and freedom."
Christian Supporter
"As a Christian, we are called to stand up against injustices and fight for people who have no voice. You can't read about Jesus and come to the conclusion that he wouldn't be advocating for ending slavery. If we are called to reflect Christ, we need to stand for what he stands for."
Donor
"Sean and I give to SWLAA because we believe that human trafficking is something that needs to be fought and brought to the light. We are blessed that we have a local organization that works so hard for the victims, it is what we would want someone to do for our daughters."
Monthly Supporter
"The reason I give monthly is because I have no doubt in my mind how the money is being used. I know that my support is going to help so many people who are often overlooked by others. SWLAA is out there doing things that most people don't have the courage to do, and anything I can do to help them I will."
Your support helps us continue the fight against human trafficking