Milwaukee Public Schools
“Adira speaks honestly from her heart! Her personal story and concrete examples of what adults didn’t do and what adults can do differently is essential for anyone working with children. Her survival and resiliency are an inspiring call to action.“
Jean Gatz, Manager of School Psychology and Allied Health Services, Milwaukee Public Schools
“Initially I heard Adira James speak at the JUST (Juvenile Sex Trafficking Conference) in October 2024, and
I would have never thought this was the first time she shared her story on a public platform. She was
highly engaging and spoke from the heart as she courageously shared her horrific story of being
trafficked by her parents, while groomed since birth. This was the first time I heard of familial trafficking
and thought to myself, this has to be one of the worst cases of trafficking ever! My heart was so broken
to learn that her parents, and none of her abusers ever were punished for what they did! This woman is
beyond resilient, an amazing author, and if you are looking to end familial trafficking, Adira’s story needs
to be heard! Her one-hour session at the JUST conference left me in tears, angry that she endured all of
this abuse and torture, and I left the conference feeling called to action! So called to action, we had her
come to Milwaukee, Wisconsin in August 2025 to share her story with our school social workers,
psychologists, nurses, and counselors in Milwaukee Public Schools, to help them understand the
warning signs of trafficking, questions to ask students when suspecting trafficking, and ways to connect
with and support students that may be impacted. Our staff were moved by her story and walked away
feeling equipped with more knowledge about familial trafficking and empowered to support students
that may be victims. One staff member told me; this was the best PD they have ever attended in all
their 20 years in the district. Thanks, Adira for your vulnerability and tenacity to share your story in
order to help other child victims of familial trafficking.“
Nicole Cain, MSW
Manager, School Social Work and Community Services
Milwaukee Public Schools
“Adira James’s voice is gentle – but it is full of power and authenticity! The honest way that she shared her story and healing journey really impacted my understanding of survivorship. I am grateful that she was willing to share her experiences, so that I can better recognize familial sexual abuse and trafficking, and support the children, youth that adults that I serve. Adira’s words continue to stay with me, and I believe they will for a long while.”
Jessica Goodman Schutz, School Social Worker, Milwaukee Public Schools, MPS Liaison at the Family Peace Center, and MPS Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinator
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)
“ I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Adira James for sharing your powerful story of resilience and strength. Your willingness to open up about your experiences with familial trafficking is truly courageous and inspiring. By sharing your journey, you are not only shedding light on an important issue but also offering hope to others who may be facing similar challenges.
Your insights are invaluable to professionals working in this field, as they remind us of the human spirit’s ability to overcome even the darkest situations. Your voice is a beacon for change, helping to shape the future of care and support for survivors. Thank you for being a powerful advocate for yourself and others, and for encouraging us all to continue the fight against human trafficking. Your journey is a testament to the strength and resilience that lie within, and we were honored to learn from you.“
Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell
Executive Director | Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)
Adira James 