Distinguished Speakers Series: “Human Trafficking in the United States: Its past, its present, and How to Counter this National Epidemic" with Dr. Doug Gilmer

The San Diego World Affairs Council Presents

“Human Trafficking in the United States: Its past, its present, and

How to Counter this National Epidemic

featuring:

DR. DOUG GILMER

Tuesday July 23, 2024

6:00pm - 8:00pm

 National University 

9388 Lightwave Avenue, San Diego, CA 92123

About the Program

Former Special Agent Doug Gilmer will provide an overview of the DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking and what DHS is doing to combat human trafficking, including an interesting overview of the history of human trafficking and the role of DHS in fighting this crime since 1875. Other topics covered will include present day human trafficking to include both sex and labor trafficking, forced labor in the supply chain, and the myths and misconceptions surrounding this timely and important topic in our San Diego community.

About Doug Gilmer

Doug Gilmer is a 35-year law enforcement veteran, most recently serving as the Senior Law Enforcement Liaison and Advisor at the Department of Homeland Security’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking (CCHT) in Washington, DC where he was responsible for external engagement, stakeholder development, and strategy implementation. Prior to his position at the CCHT he served as the Resident Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Birmingham, Alabama; in the role of Assistant Special Agent in Charge; Chief of the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Unit, and in many other leadership and investigative assignments throughout his federal law enforcement career. He began his law enforcement career in local law enforcement and concurrently served the nation as a military member, retiring in 2019 from the United States Coast Guard Reserve. In his last military assignment, he served as the Gold Badge Command Master Chief where he was responsible for thousands of military and civilian personnel in the Mid-Atlantic area of the United States.

Doug is a dedicated defender of human rights and fighter against crimes such as human trafficking and child exploitation. He has extensive experience working and supervising investigations related to human trafficking, child exploitation, and human rights violations. He is strong proponent of victim-centered and trauma informed investigative protocols. A strong advocate for public-private partnerships, he is passionate about building and equipping teams to effectively combat these crimes, assist victims, and hold offenders accountable for their crimes. He is in high demand across the country as a speaker, lecturer, and trainer to communities, faith-based organizations, law enforcement, and on college campuses. His background and experience allow him to communicate a compelling message to deliver vital information, drive change, and direct action.