Mural Project

About the “From Surviving to Thriving” Mural

Artist Statement By Nipa Thakkar Eason

Nipa Thakkar Eason

Desmond Tutu’s words bring to mind the community and collaboration needed to help mitigate human trafficking – humanizing this experience, empathizing with survivors, and working together to help the people around us survive and thrive. I wanted to use his words to emphasize the visual representation of something very close to my heart. Throughout the nine years I’ve lived in the Big Bend region, following any challenging moments, I have always felt immense joy when making a wish on a dandelion. Dandelions are common, almost to the point of being invisible – much like human trafficking in our communities.

Over time, the dandelion has become the perfect symbol of survival and optimism; we associate it with hopes and dreams, resilience and determination, and overcoming challenges and pain. For this mural, I envision a colorful representation of a dandelion, whose seeds are flying while transforming into doves – an often-overlooked symbol of freedom and a nod to STAC’s logo. I also wanted to portray how survivors can be supported in our communities, both individually and by working together. I know that bright colors and a whimsical style may not be what we traditionally associate with a call to end human trafficking. Still, considering the theme, I realized I want this mural to bring hope and optimism to the people who see it and the communities in which it lives. I wanted this piece to represent a wish we’re making – to be better and to do better.

The Mural Project: Community Conversations About Human Trafficking

It is time to unlock the power of community to end human trafficking. Our transformative Community Conversations create interactive spaces where art meets expertise to ignite change. Our community conversations are inspired by the resilience and strength of survivors showcased by “From Surviving to Thriving”, a portable mural crafted in collaboration with local artist and STAC board member Nipa Thakkar Eason. These interactive gatherings are designed to harness the resilience and strength it takes to disrupt sex and labor trafficking and pave the way for thriving communities.

At Community Conversations, participants are invited to engage in dialogue with expert panelists and contribute to collaborative art projects on blank canvases, amplifying the strength of our collective community. Here, individuals deepen their understanding of human trafficking, learn to identify the signs of this crime, and discover actionable strategies to drive positive change.

Accessible to all, our Community Conversations are designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring everyone feels welcome and empowered to participate.

Could your town be the next to join the movement? Consider hosting these impactful events in venues like art galleries, public art-themed spaces, faith communities, town halls, schools, or local health departments.

We invite you to stand with us, harnessing the transformative power of art and conversation to shine a light on the harsh realities of human trafficking and offer unwavering support to survivors in our midst.

Upcoming Events

Please contact Robin at STAC robin@surviveandthriveadvocacy.org if you would like to have a Human Trafficking Community Conversation in your area.

Testimonials

This was an awesome event! It was the first time that I’d been to a program like this – I loved how they used the mural artwork for people in the room to talk about sex and labor trafficking in ways that we could all learn and connect around. I am new to this issue and the questions and exploration of trafficking was powerful and really impacted me. It’s a way that I can see a community literally building a team to work on trafficking prevention and getting support for survivors. Kudos to STAC and to everyone who came!
– Sue Semrau, Florida State Basketball Coach (1997-2022)

Human Trafficking is often something discussed in ways that are nebulous. While all conversations, forums, or forms of awareness are important for this issue, the conversation facilitated by STAC was so much different for me. It connected a real issue, in real time, for real people. The panel and audience developed a dialogue that presented questions I had never thought of and unearthed answers that changed my life. For so long I saw Human Trafficking as an issue that affected other people and I now see it as an issue waiting to affect us all. This has added to not only my personal wherewithal, but also my diligence in spreading awareness on this issue.
– Josh Johnson, President/CEO of the 621 Gallery

The “Human Trafficking Community Conversation” at 621 Gallery in February was an eye-opening experience that brought together a vibrant mix of voices to tackle the tough issues surrounding trafficking. From advocates shedding light on systemic injustices to community members sharing personal insights, it was a gathering fueled by empathy and a shared commitment to action. As attendees delved into the complexities of the issue and explored intersectional approaches, the event sparked a contagious energy for positive change, highlighting the incredible power of community-driven initiatives in the fight against exploitation.
– Kia Thomas, Founder – Infinite Public Relations Firm and STAC Board Member

I attended our first Community Conversation during which we shared the amazing mural created by our own Nipa Eason. The thing about the evening that I loved was how the art opened people up to talking about themselves or friends or family who have experienced human trafficking. The brief explanation of the art led to beautiful conversation and important insights into how deeply this issue impacts us and our community.
– Alicia Smith, STAC Board Member

The devastation of human trafficking runs deep and far in our community. We need a safe place to come together as a united front to battle it head on. Imagine Freedom 2024 at the 621 Gallery was a unique way for the community to start that conversation while exploring the healing power of art. Every step counts and I am glad I was there to be a part of this program.
– Maria Folsom, Victim Advocate Leon County Sheriff’s Office

Community Conversations In the News

“People think human trafficking takes place only in big cities” – why that’s not always the case

WTXL | By Kenzie Krueger

Tallahassee continues its community conversation about human trafficking
WFSU | By Tom Flanigan

Traveling mural designed to raise awareness about human trafficking in the Big Bend
WTXL | By Maya Sargent

Host a “Human Trafficking Community Conversation”

To learn how you can host a Human Trafficking Community Conversation in your area, or for more information about STAC, please contact Robin Hassler Thompson, STAC executive director, at robin@surviveandthriveadvocacy.org or 850-597-2080.