What happens when the person you trust most—your own mother—becomes the architect of unimaginable harm? Today, we delve into the harrowing story of Cindy Lê, a survivor of familial sex trafficking who, starting at 8 years old, endured years of abuse facilitated by her own mother.
Cindy shares her journey of survival, beginning with her family's financial struggles that led her mother to make a devastating "deal" with a neighbor across the street. Cindy recounts how her mother essentially traded her to this predator, who masked his exploitation as love and trust. For years, Cindy was groomed and sexually assaulted while her mother turned a blind eye in exchange for money. When Cindy did tell her siblings the police got involved. Yet her mother actively encouraged her to “let it go” and not pursue prosecution. Her story sheds light on the systemic failures and personal betrayals that allowed this abuse to persist.
Lisa welcomed Cindy to discuss not only her survival but her path to healing and the complex emotions she grapples with, including her feelings toward her mother. Together, they confront the dark realities of grooming, the devastating impact of a parent’s choices, and the cultural silence surrounding abuse. Cindy’s resilience is a testament to the human spirit, and her advocacy aims to help others find their way out of dark times to prevent the heartache she once endured.
This episode is a call to action: to break the silence, support survivors, and ensure no child has to endure what Cindy did. It’s about exposing predators hiding in plain sight and empowering survivors to reclaim their stories.
Just a heads up: This episode contains discussions of childhood sexual abuse and sex trafficking. Some may find it upsetting. We encourage you to take care of yourself.
About Cindy Lê
Cindy Lê is a thriving business owner, a loving wife, a caring friend, and a devoted mother. Cindy’s journey does not end with her survival. She has taken it upon herself to shine a light on the dark reality of familial sex trafficking, a subject that is often surrounded by silence.
Follow Cindy @Ms_CindyLe on Instagram. You can check out her skincare line at beautybymrscindy.com.
Follow Lisa Phillips @iamlisaphillips on Instagram.
From Now On is produced by LA PHILLIPS MEDIA. Listen and follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
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If today’s conversation resonated with you and you are seeking more support in your own healing journey, here are some resources below:
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, help is available. Call 800.656.HOPE (4673)
If you or someone you know is being trafficked, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Text 233733 (befree).
PAVE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit creating a world free from sexual violence and building communities to support survivors.
Speak Out, Act, Reclaim (SOAR) is dedicated to providing a safe and empowering space for survivors of sex trafficking to reclaim their stories and stand up for themselves and each other.