Demand Reduction

Several community organizations across Minnesota recognize the need to address social and environmental factors that promote and foster attitudes contributing to sex trafficking and other forms of sexual violence against women. These organizations not only acknowledge men’s role in sex trafficking, but also provide opportunities for men to combat the exploitation of women and girls.

Men as Peacemakers, has a ground-breaking campaign called the Don’t Buy it Project. The Don’t Buy It Project (DBIP) is a primary prevention strategy focused on reshaping mainstream culture by shifting the values, beliefs, and social norms that allow commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) to thrive. DBIP includes strategic messaging, educational resources, and organizing focused on changing the conditions that make it acceptable for a majority of men to remain silent, if not actively participate in CSE. The project connects men, and people of all gender identities, to the harm caused to those who are exploited through CSE.

Gender Violence Institute: GVI offers training and consultation throughout Minnesota on the causes of and solutions for addressing sexual exploitation demand.

Beyond Tough Guise: Beyond Tough Guise is a program serving boys in Winona County, Minnesota. BTG works to mentor boys into a positive vision of masculinity that embraces respect towards women and girls.

Additional Resources on Demand: