On Monday March 23, 2009, a Public Memorial will be held in San Francisco to honor Norma Hotaling, Founder and former Director of Standing Against Global Exploitation (SAGE) Project.  Norma was instrumental in combating commercial sexual exploitation and making this world a safer place for all.

In a Q&A with Norma reprinted on the SAGE website (www.sagesf.org), Norma revealed “It's crucial to provide safe, compassionate, and realistic outreach and services to those who wish to exit the sex trade safely and healthfully. It's also crucial to raise awareness about what commercial sexual exploitation really is, and what it's about. To some degree, talking about that requires talking about how girls, women, boys and men are victimized through commercial sexual exploitation and the violence that often comes with it. However, so many survivor stories are also about healing, recovery, empowerment, giving back, resilience and strength that it's important to talk about that, too.”

Norma not only talked about it, but she lived it. She reached out to thousands of individuals both here in San Francisco and throughout the world to share the power of survival. Norma was a fighter and a true inspiration for anyone who cares about the dignity and human rights of others. This memorial will be a great opportunity for all of us to celebrate her life, work and the impact she had on this world.

Monday, March 23, 2009

4:00 - 6:00 pm

San Francisco City Hall

North Light Court on the First Floor