On March 16, 2024, the Washington DC Alumnae Chapter Social Action Committee, in partnership with the Black and Missing Foundation, hosted Eyes Wide Open: Help Us Find Us, a powerful community symposium at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. The free, half-day event—part of our Regional Day of Service—brought together attendees to confront the crisis of human trafficking and missing Black women and girls in the District.

The program featured remarks from city officials and survivors, along with panel discussions and breakout sessions designed to inform and empower. Participants learned how to avoid being trafficked, how to recognize trafficking victims, and how to seek help for themselves or others.

Speakers included Black and Missing Foundation Co-Founders Derrica Wilson and Natalie Wilson, Councilmember Christina Henderson, MPD Assistant Police Chief Andre Wright, survivor-advocates Stacy Jewell and Barbara Jean Wilson, and Ruth Richardson, former Minnesota State Representative. Emceed by award-winning news personality, Soror Tracee Wilkins (NBC4), the program emphasized awareness, prevention, and advocacy.

A youth-focused “Power to the Youth” track invited middle and high school students to participate in interactive activities like writing letters to survivors and contacting legislators. Guests also enjoyed spoken word performances, a documentary screening, book signings, and meals throughout the day.

The successful event underscored the urgent need for visibility and created space for the community to engage elected officials and advocate for stronger legislation to protect Black women and girls.