Harlot Heart Foundation Hosts first annual ‘Night of the arts’ Gala to Combat Human Trafficking
El Centro, CA – A remarkable gathering of creativity and compassion took place on Saturday, March 29th, as the “Night of the Arts” gala unfolded to raise awareness and funds against human trafficking. Held from 6 to 10 PM, the event was organized by local artist and activist Jazz LedBetter and her organization, Harlot Heart, featuring a fashion show, creative interpretational dance performance, silent auction, a mural reveal, art exhibit, live book reading, Jamaican dishes, and drinks.
Attendees were greeted with a vibrant atmosphere as models, including local personalities such as Karen Chambers and Tahjah Fortune, showcased their talents and commitment to this pressing cause. Chambers, a fashion show veteran and friend of LedBetter, expressed her dedication: “I’ve modeled before in fashion shows, and I’m here to support Jazz and her ‘Breaking the Cycle Harlot Hearts’ initiative.”
Tahjah Fortune, also participating in the fashion show, shared her excitement about being a part of the event. “It feels amazing to be here to support a cause for all people going against human trafficking. The vibes are amazing, everyone is so supportive, and the process has been really smooth,” said Fortune.
The gala not only highlighted fashion but also celebrated local art. Angel Martinez, a designer from the Imperial Valley, presented a collection that honored his Chicano heritage. “Today’s fashion show was through Harlot Heart. My designs include an army jacket with Chicano power elements and a pair of pants called ‘Santa Muerte.’ It feels really good to be a part of something for a greater cause like ending human trafficking,” he noted. Martinez praised LedBetter for sharing her powerful journey in her book, "Harlot Heart: Tributes to Triumph," which inspired many attendees.
The fashion show’s theme, “Thrifted, Upcycled, Unique,” resonated with California’s commitment to sustainable fashion (SB707) with the models walking the runway wearing thrifted clothing from Womanhaven, Goodwill, old dresses from Jazz LedBetter’s closet, and locally designed pieces using thrifted or repurposed clothing. Proceeds from the event aimed to raise $100,000 to launch an innovative program in Imperial County, providing support for trafficking survivors and trauma victims through sustainable employment, education, and healing opportunities.
The community rallied to the cause, contributing close to $5,000 through ticket sales, sponsorships, and book sales. LedBetter contributed to the total fundraised amount by pledging that all proceeds from her artistic endeavors beginning in 2025 would be donated to support the mission of “Night of the Arts.”
The evening also featured a live reading from LedBetter’s inspiring book, Harlot Heart: Tributes to Triumph, in which she describes her personal journey through trafficking. LedBetter explains, “I wrote this book to share how, when, and why I started Harlot Heart, as well as how I used my passion to discover my purpose and the path I chose from there.'"
With creativity and solidarity, the 'Night of the Arts' gala not only showcased local talent but also brought attention to the pressing issue of human trafficking, inviting the community to join the fight and support survivors on their journey toward healing and empowerment.
