Biography:
Florrie R. Burke, M.Ed., MA, LMFT, is a renowned human rights advocate who has dedicated her life to combating human trafficking. With an illustrious career spanning over a decade and a half, she has made significant contributions to the fight against modern slavery.
In May 2013, Florrie Burke received the inaugural Presidential Award for Extraordinary Efforts to Combat Trafficking in Persons from Secretary of State John Kerry. This prestigious award was granted in recognition of her sustained dedication and unparalleled leadership in combating human trafficking. As the citation states, she has demonstrated remarkable commitment to the development and delivery of comprehensive services, empowering survivors to transition from slavery to independence, and transforming policies to eradicate all forms of human trafficking .
Florrie Burke has served as a consultant on Human Trafficking and Modern Day Slavery to both governmental and non-governmental agencies. Her expertise lies in the victim-centered approach in human trafficking cases and collaborative efforts between criminal justice actors and victim care providers . Her extensive knowledge and experience have made her a leading expert in the field.
As a founding member and Chair Emeritus of the Freedom Network, Florrie Burke has played a pivotal role in advancing the fight against human trafficking. She has also been involved with the Freedom Network Training Institute and serves on the Steering Committee of the New York Anti-Trafficking Network . Through these platforms, she has contributed to the development of training programs and initiatives to combat trafficking and support survivors.
Florrie Burke’s impact extends beyond the United States. She has conducted training, speaking engagements, and consultations on human trafficking issues both domestically and internationally. Her expertise has allowed her to serve as an expert witness in cases related to human trafficking. Furthermore, she has been an active member of the Global Training Initiative on Human Trafficking at the UNODC in Vienna, contributing to global efforts to combat this heinous crime .
Florrie Burke’s journey in combating human trafficking began in 1997 when she designed and implemented specialized social services for sixty deaf Mexicans who were held in slavery in a peddling ring in New York City. This early experience shaped her commitment to this cause and motivated her to continue her work in the field. She played a key role in establishing the Anti-Trafficking Program at Safe Horizon in 2001 and also designed and implemented a model for Community Trauma Response following the September 11th attacks.
Florrie Burke’s remarkable contributions have been recognized and honored by various organizations. In 2007, she received the National Crime Victims Recognition Service Award from the Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime. She has also been honored by the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice, the Wage and Hour Division of the United States Department of Labor, and was the recipient of the Annual Paul and Sheila Wellstone Award by the Freedom Network USA .
In addition to her outstanding achievements, Florrie Burke is also notable for her personal life. She identifies as a lesbian and had a partner of over 30 years, Barbara Hammer, until her passing .
Florrie R. Burke’s unwavering commitment, expertise, and invaluable contributions to combating human trafficking have made her a true champion in the fight against modern slavery. Her dedication to the victim-centered approach, policy reform, and survivor empowerment has transformed countless lives and continues to inspire change worldwide.
Awards:
1. Presidential Award for Extraordinary Efforts to Combat Trafficking in Persons (2013)
2. National Crime Victims Recognition Service Award (2007)
3. Paul and Sheila Wellstone Award (Freedom Network USA)
Additional Awards/Honors:
– Honored by the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice
– Honored by the Wage and Hour Division of the United States Department of Labor