January is recognized as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and in Tucson, Arizona, survivor Monica Perkins is leveraging her experiences to raise awareness through poetry and art. Perkins, now 39, endured eight years of human trafficking starting at the age of 17, a harrowing journey that spanned multiple states and involved numerous predators. Her story is prominently featured in an art exhibit downtown called “Every Step Has a Story – How We Got In, How We Got Out, Who We Are Now,” where she shares her experiences through her poignant poem titled “Against All the Odds.”
Perkins fled an abusive relationship while pregnant, only to find herself trapped in a new cycle of exploitation. Reflecting on her past, she stated, “My brain was being rewired and reconditioned before I even knew myself.” Her first encounter with a predator occurred in a group home in San Francisco, where she was drawn in by the allure of promises and material possessions. “He took me around and showed me some of his houses. He had a nice car, he told me he was a rap producer,” she recalled.
Tragedy struck when her son, Dondre Cannon, was taken from her at just four months old, forcing her into prostitution. Perkins recounted the moment she was handed a purse filled with rubber gloves, condoms, and lubrication—tools of her coerced trade—before being dropped off at a strip club. During her time in captivity, she faced isolation, psychological and physical abuse, and was permitted to see her son only a handful of times. “My family didn’t exist anymore. This is my new life,” she recounted, reflecting on the trauma of her past.
Securing her freedom at the age of 25 was not an easy feat, but the desire to reunite with her son fueled her determination. Now, Perkins confronts her past directly through her poetry, declaring, “As survivors, it’s up to us to unite and fight for what’s right. Stand tall and turn our pain into power.” She aims to inspire others, emphasizing that healing is possible and that her suffering should serve a greater purpose.
Perkins also urges individuals to take action when they see signs of trafficking. “There are so many people that could have stepped in and saved my life,” she lamented, highlighting the importance of awareness and intervention in such situations.
The curator of the art exhibit, Angela Marie, a fellow survivor, believes it is essential to provide a platform for victims to reclaim their voices. She stated, “Being able to walk with other survivors and see them begin to own their own lives again… to remind them they have a voice.” This exhibit not only showcases their stories but also fosters a sense of community among survivors, allowing them to share their journeys.
Perkins, along with her now 21-year-old son and 15-year-old daughter, Arianna, collaborates with organizations like Southern Arizona Against Slavery (SAAS) to assist others on their paths to healing. Norma Darnell, the president of SAAS and also a survivor, invites others to trust in the support they offer. “I know that you’ve learned how to build walls and not to trust, but all I can say is just to give us an opportunity,” she said, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to nurturing survivors.
The “Every Step Has a Story” exhibit is hosted at the 7 Legged Spider Gallery, located in the Steinfeld Warehouse at 101 W. 6th St. in downtown Tucson. It is open for the month of January on Saturdays from 1:00 to 16:00 and by special appointment. For more information, interested individuals can contact Angela Marie on Instagram at @angela_marie_arts.
Additionally, a Human Trafficking Awareness Walk is scheduled for January 19, 2024, at 09:00, starting from the northwest corner of Reid Park. This event aims to further educate the public on the signs of trafficking and encourage community involvement in combating this pressing issue.
Through her art and activism, Perkins continues to shed light on a critical issue, inspiring others to speak out and fight against human trafficking.
