Dear AAFSW Members and Community,

I am pleased to bring to your attention an important piece of legislation currently before Congress: the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 1144). This bipartisan bill advances justice, dignity, and protection for survivors of trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation through survivor-informed policy, prevention strategies, and international cooperation.

With its international scope and relevance to Foreign Service personnel, H.R. 1144 authorizes $111 million annually (2026–2030) for foreign assistance programs targeting trafficking abroad, and $23 million annually to support the State Department’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking and its interagency task force. These funds fall under Budget Function 150 (International Affairs) and are subject to congressional approval through the annual appropriations process. If enacted, they would enhance diplomatic engagement, expand field-level resources, and reinforce trauma-informed programming across missions.

The bill also broadens trafficking definitions, including organ harvesting, and encourages integration of anti-trafficking strategies into development efforts. It directly supports U.S. embassies, consulates, and affiliated organizations by providing policy tools, printed TIP materials, and survivor-centered guidance.

AAFSW has consistently supported initiatives that promote dignity, protection, and justice. From supporting shelters for survivors of human trafficking and abused children to hosting events that addressed violence against women in Iran, our programming reflects a commitment to vulnerable populations and the challenges they face. We have also provided resources and recognition to Foreign Service families navigating hardship during separation and divorce.

This message is intended to raise awareness of H.R. 1144 and its relevance to our community. It does not constitute a formal endorsement by AAFSW. We remain committed to transparency, neutrality, and principled engagement on issues that intersect with our mission.

Thank you for your continued support.

Celine Ford, AAFSW President

H.R.1144 - 119th Congress (2025-2026): Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2025 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

AAFSW is pleased to share a model message you can send to your representatives to voice support for H.R. 1144.

Subject: Support for H.R. 1144 and H.R. 4405 — Upholding Survivor Justice and Transparency

Dear [Representative's Name],

As a member of the American Foreign Service community, I urge you to support two vital pieces of legislation:

H.R. 1144 – The Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2025 This bill strengthens our national and international efforts to combat human trafficking through survivor-informed policy and bipartisan collaboration.

These bills reflect our shared values of dignity, accountability, and protection for the vulnerable. I respectfully ask you to support both measures and stand with survivors.