Uncovering Human Trafficking
ByI saw this PSA on The View Monday. It’s currently broadcasted by the United Nations, and hasn’t been released into the US yet. Actress Emma Thompson, seen in the PSA, is working with the UN and its force behind the stop of human trafficking. I think this PSA is truly moving because it uncovers a message about a topic that you wouldn’t probably think about otherwise. Human trafficking affects people, especially women from all over the globe each and every day. The illegal selling of people as sex slaves and workers is a brutal reality that must be addressed.
Emma Thompson has also collaborated with artists creating a new installation to be viewed in Washington Square Park in NY throughout November. The exhibit depicts the life of Elena Varga from Moldavia, Romania who was sold into prostitution. The installation, “comprises seven shipping containers, each designed by a different artist to interpret the different stages of Elena’s journey through the sex trade” (from UNIFEM).
While it’s hard to imagine this actually happens around the world AND in the US, there are efforts like the UN’s PSAs to try to raise awareness about the topic in order to spur change. I think PSAs like this one are essential for the worldwide community to be informed about issues that, for the most part, slip under the radar. I also think the UN was smart to have the articulate Emma Thompson as a spokesperson for the effort because she is recognized and respected internationally. To learn more about human trafficking and efforts to try to stop the awful practice, visit un.gift.org.
1 Comments
December 9th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
I watched this video when lauren first posted and found it extremely emotional and it made quite an impact. I just went to view it again and it was removed by the user. I wonder if it was too intense or if there were certain regulations that it violated.
I think promoting the awareness of this subject is very important. I feel like people are beginning to talk about this more opening especially with movies like “Taken” coming out, but it is still a bit taboo. Because the subject is so intense and graphic that people tend not to want to acknowledge it.
I believe Emma Thompson is a perfect spokesperson. She is an international celebrity who is also relatable as a motherly figure (so she can be taken seriously). Because this is an international problem, someone who will be recognized in multiple countries is the ideal candidate.