January 16, 2020

Human trafficking expert to speak after documentary screening at Mount Mercy

Teresa Davidson, co-founder and president of Chains Interrupted and anti-human trafficking coordinator at Mercy Medical Center, will speak at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21 in Mount Mercy University’s Flaherty Community Room (204 Basile Hall).  

Her comments will follow the 7 p.m. screening of the “Gridshock” documentary, which shows the hidden reality behind the sex trafficking demand in Iowa.

“Mount Mercy University, founded by the Sisters of Mercy, seeks to both educate and inspire the community to act in the name of social justice, and human trafficking is one of these social justice issues,” said Amanda Humphrey, professor and director of the criminal justice graduate program.

Mount Mercy University, founded by the Sisters of Mercy, seeks to both educate and inspire the community to act in the name of social justice, and human trafficking is one of these social justice issues.

Amanda Humphrey
Professor and Director of Graduate Criminal Justice Program

“‘Gridshock’ is so important because it shows us that human trafficking isn’t just an international problem or limited to the coasts—it’s right here in Iowa. It’s critical that Iowans learn the warning signs, speak up and reach out to victims of human trafficking,” said Deb Brydon, associate professor of criminal justice.

Brydon also added that Mercy Medical Center takes human trafficking seriously here in eastern Iowa—so seriously that it designated Davidson, a nurse, to focus on this growing crisis. 

Brydon also added that Mercy Medical Center takes human trafficking seriously here in eastern Iowa—so seriously that it designated Davidson, a nurse, to focus on this growing crisis. 

In addition to her work at Mercy Medical Center, Davidson’s role at the non-profit Chains Interrupted organization helps fight human trafficking through innovative projects, programs and community partnerships.

The event is free and open to the public. It is sponsored by and Mount Mercy’s campus ministry department, criminal justice program, Students for Anti-Violence Solutions (SAVS) student organization, Busse Library and Cedar Rapids NOW.