Christian Men Speak Up: For Sexually Exploited Women and Children

About the Author

Denise is a wife, a mother, and the National Director of Operations for Healing Communities USA, a faith-based organization training churches in the area of prison reentry, sex trafficking awareness, and juvenile justice. Having done extensive research for nearly eight years and completing her Doctor of Ministry dissertation on “Christian Men Speak Up for Sexually Exploited Women and Children,” she now has a deep love and concern for the victims of Human Trafficking. Christian Men Speak Up is based on research with the participation of 300 Christian men from the Washington, DC Metropolitan area (DMV). The project’s goal and her book are to advise Christian men of their crucial role in changing cultural attitudes surrounding the sexual exploitation of women and children by addressing those who drive the demand for sex trafficking. Denise is also a Board Member of the Center for Public Justice (Washington, DC), whose mission is to equip citizens, develop leaders, and shape policy in pursuit of purpose to serve God, advance justice, and transform public life.

Qn 1: Can you tell us more about your book, Christian Men Speak Up: For Sexually Exploited Women and Children, What is it about?

I had the privilege of surveying over 300 Christian men in the Washington, DC, Metropolitan area in preparing for my doctoral dissertation. The survey comprised 31 multiple-choice questions designed to bring awareness of sexually exploited women and children’s sufferings. The Christian Men Speak Up survey results showed that most men were aware of the sexual exploitation of women and children. However, more than half of them believed that it was more of an issue in other countries. When one gentleman was approached on taking the Christian Men Speak Up survey, his response was that his wife was well informed, implying that he did not need to be since he is male. His misunderstanding is a typical response since most men typically think this is an issue better handled by women. Although many women worldwide are doing an excellent job in leading anti-trafficking organizations, research shows that it is primarily men involved in the supply and demand of women and children. Dealing with those who are at the root of driving the demand for vulnerable women and children has been challenging since according to research, 99% of men are sex buyers. This has further been additionally challenging because most men prefer to listen to other men. Men are needed to confront the systemic cultural attitudes that are at the root of sex buyer’s behavior. The ethical principle of “proximity,” argues that persons have a responsibility to engage issues as they present themselves in their immediate experience. Two of the major components that contribute to the demand for sex trafficking largely involve men.
I do realize that Christianity is not as popular as it once was in society. I will not pretend that sexual immorality is not an issue in the Church. As a matter of fact, it has always been an issue in the Church. In recent history, many pastors and leaders in the Church have been found guilty of sexual immorality. Sexual molestation has been an issue amongst priests in the Catholic Church for a long time. But, God’s Word does not change even though culture and societies often change. God gives each of us numerous opportunities to repent and begin again. That’s the Christian man I am appealing to today, the one who has taken advantage of this opportunity to repent and begin again. God has always used imperfect people to carry out his mission because He is very much against people being unjustly mistreated by other people.

Qn 2: Who do you think would be interested in this book, Christian Men Speak Up: For Sexually Exploited Women and Children, is it directed at any particular market?

I believe men, women, and young people would be interested in this book since sex trafficking is an issue that threatens every community and race. I also believe that the Christian church regardless of their denomination would be interested in this book since there is detailed information in how congregations can get involved in working with community organizations that are already actively working diligently and tirelessly against modern-day slavery.

Qn 3: Out of all the books in the world, and all the authors, which are your favourite and why?

My favorite book in the world today is by author T.D. Jakes. His newly released book, Don’t Drop the Mic, conveys the powerful, resonant impact virtually every communicator desires to have with his or her audience. Whether you are a writer, professor, preacher, CEO, influencer, leading a group discussion, this is a great book to learn about the art of communication.

Qn 4: What guidance would you offer to someone new, or trying to enhance their writing?

I strongly suggest to the one who is new and trying to enhance their writing, to choose a mentor that is already doing what you love. Study their work, ask them questions, take a class and keep on writing. It’s not about perfection. It’s about production. Don’t be afraid to put your work out there.

Qn 5: Where can our readers find out more about you, and your book, Christian Men Speak Up: For Sexually Exploited Women and Children, do you have a website, or a way to be contacted?

Website: https://www.denisestrothers.com
Facebook: @ddstrothers
Instagram: @ddstrothers
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/denisestrothers