The group convened at the Drake Hotel Thursday morning to kick off their "Pillars of Hope" project with a panel discussion. They were joined by technology and legal experts along with representatives from the Department of Homeland Security.
The event aims to find ways to not only stop human trafficking but help empower survivors as well.
"Survivors need to be involved in policy and decision making that help in their lives. They need to be involved in training," said Shamere McKenzie, a survivor of human trafficking.
The group spearheading the initiative includes Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan and Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller.
