After a ridiculous number of rings, she picks up.
“Elisia,” I say, exasperated. “Sis! Are you ready to do this interview?
“Hang on, Sis.” I just saw my client on the street and I gotta give him this lighter. Don’t ask.” She puts me on hold. Again.
I do know not to ask. We call each other sister, a title given to a close-knit circle of survivors of human trafficking. Whatever she’s doing, it’s important: she’s helping someone. I know because she regularly provides food, blankets, friendship and clinical counseling from her office at Central City Concern for Portland’s abused and downtrodden.
I also know she has a powerful story. Sold by her mother at 12, she later gave up her firstborn for adoption. Today many find inspiration from her son, Nahko Bear, water protector and front man for Nahko & Medicine for the People. This is her journey.
Continue reading at Crixeo.