By: Cheyenne Johnson
This summer, I have made a habit of underlining every time Jesus says, “Truly I tell you.” It has become my personal flag in the text, a signal that whatever comes next deserves my full attention. One verse that has been a major theme of my summer work is Matthew 25:40: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” This summer has been one of the most meaningful seasons of my legal journey thus far. As a rising 3L at Regent School of Law, I have had the incredible opportunity to intern with two organizations that fight against human trafficking and sexual exploitation. These experiences have deepened my passion for anit-human trafficking law and defending those who need it most.
At the Center for Global Justice, I have focused on laying the groundwork for impactful client representation. One of my primary tasks has been preparing materials for the Human Trafficking Clinic that rising 3Ls, including myself, will join this fall. Through this clinic, students will have the opportunity to directly represent and assist victims of human trafficking as Virginia implements its new vacatur law. This legislation offers a critical pathway for survivors to clear their records of trafficking related offenses, helping them move forward without the weight of unjust criminalization.
I have also conducted research on developing a Medical-Legal Partnership (MLP) with Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS). This initiative aims to bridge legal and medical services, providing holistic support to survivors who often face intertwined health, legal and social challenges.
One of the most memorable experiences was joining a trip to Chesterfield Jail to participate in a SKIP (Survivors Knowing & Inspiring Peace) session. Being able to sit with survivors, hear their stories, and witness the power of community and restoration in such a setting was extremely eye-opening and once in a lifetime experience.
At the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), my experience has included high level policy advocacy and direct connection with those affected by exploitation. I had the privilege of attending Senate Judiciary Committee hearings and related meetings, where I joined discussions with senators on critical reform.
I also participated in Social Media Victims Remembrance Day, an event that brought together families of victims and survivors. Meeting these brave individuals and hearing their stories firsthand was both heartbreaking and inspiring. Their courage fuels our fight for meaningful change.
Beyond these events, I have contributed to several legislator meetings and worked on various policy reform projects while supporting active cases that NCOSE is litigating. Every task has reinforced how legal advocacy, research, and storytelling must work together to create systemic change.
This summer has been a powerful reminder that the law is not just case books and studying for finals. It is a calling to defend the dignity of every person made in God’s image. I am grateful to the teams at the Center for Global Justice and NCOSE for investing in me and for their tireless work. I am especially thankful for the ways these experiences are equipping me as I prepare for graduation in 2027 and pursue a career focused on prosecution, public interest, and anti-trafficking advocacy.
This post was written by a student at Regent University School of Law. The views expressed in this post do not necessarily reflect those of Regent University, Regent Law School, or the Center for Global Justice.