Dotti Groover Skipper, Founder and President of the HeartDance Foundation, is among the select group of Floridians featured in TED Talks just published by TEDxEustis.
The Chamber Member company serves men, women and children exploited in the sex industry. The foundation also serves as a resource to advocates and legislators, strategizing on anti-human trafficking initiatives and legislation. Feeling the weight of this difficult topic, Dotti says that NOT speaking up about it is even harder for her, given the need. "See them, see them, see them! Then, hear and act on the human soul and spirit that's been crushed," said Dotti of her message to viewers.
Dotti was one of only 14 Floridians selected for the TEDx Talks in Eustis and filmed in front of a live audience. She described those first few seconds on stage this way: "Back stage, microphone on, sitting quietly in prayer and getting in 'the zone', I stood up when I heard Tim, the amazing TEDx Eustis emcee, announce my name. While the audience cheered and applauded, I peeked from behind the curtain, and with joyful emotion, I enthusiastically walked on stage. I was more excited than nervous and in absolute awe and gratefulness to finally share my forty-plus years of anti-human trafficking experiences on the world stage. It was a moment that almost never came. Last year's e invitation from TEDx Eustis was followed by a near-death experience. "I was fighting for my life in the TGH Heart Transplant Unit. I am a walking, breathing, healthy miracle and so very grateful to be living with renewed intention...to help others 'see the invisibles' right under our noses."
Asked if there was a surprise or moment that stood out more than others, she shared this candid photo taken when she rejoined the audience after her TEDx Talk. "This precious woman, who was at least my age, came running up in tears to give the the biggest bear hug after hearing my Talk," explained Dotti. "She was a survivor and she thanked me repeatedly for bringing light to the darkness of human trafficking."
It was a courageous and frank message on sex trafficking, that TEDx judges had to review and vet prior to publication. The TEDx Talk uploaded to its media channels with this introduction: NOTE FROM TED: This talk contains a discussion of sex trafficking that some viewers may find upsetting or objectionable. This talk represents the speaker's personal religious views and approach to advocacy. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers.
Shaped by sibling pecking order and her father’s heroic impact, Dotti Groover-Skipper has served the vulnerable in the anti-human trafficking arena for over forty years. Her dedication of assisting women exploited in sex trade continues to lead her journey in strip clubs, legislation and education.
To see the full TEDx Talk, click on What Everyday People Can Do to Stop Human Trafficking | Dotti Groover-Skipper | TEDxEustis (youtube.com)
"The Tampa Bay Chamber has been, and continues to be, an important part of my journey to raise awareness to human trafficking and offer important ways the business community can get involved to bring resolve to this insidious crime," added Dotti. "Several years ago, the Tampa Bay Chamber had the foresight to rally and host well attended gatherings to learn from expert panelists. It continues to highlight the robust anti-human trafficking initiatives in our community and helps to shine a bright light on the issue, bringing this very difficult topic out of the darkness giving extraordinary hope to victims and survivors. Having Chamber staff, Patie Powers, attend to cheer us on was phenomenal!"
"My husband, Roger and 3 of our 7 children, who were there in support, not only for the day of my Talk, but for my life's work!"