Award-winning student news since 1978

The Brookhaven Courier

Award-winning student news since 1978

The Brookhaven Courier

Award-winning student news since 1978

The Brookhaven Courier

    PSA: A21 Campaign

    By Eriana Ruiz
    Director of Photography, Video and Photo Editor

    More people today are living in slavery than in any other point in human history. More than 27 million people are in bondage across the world, according to A21, a non-profit, non-governmental organization dedicated to fighting human trafficking, including sexual exploitation and forced slave labor.

    A21 has identified a global need for rescue, rehabilitation and restoration of human trafficking victims. The organization helps potential and current victims as well as aiding in the prosecution of their traffickers.

    This project came about of my need to help with the problem. I chose to team up with A21 and produce a public service announcement showing the potential path, problems and life a runaway teenager might face.

    Earlier projects of mine bring about awareness of human trafficking through photography and other visual means. But I hope this video will make a greater impact.

    Dallas is a major hub for human trafficking. The average age for trafficking victims is 12. Only 1-2 percent of victims are rescued, according to A21.

    I hope to spread awareness and show what some girls go through a struggle. They want to leave the toxic lifestyle. But they can’t. Their lives and the lives of their families are threatened.

    A21 can help rescue, rehabilitate and restore their lives.

    This project was done in collaboration with members of The Brookhaven Courier’s multimedia staff and shot on locations in downtown Dallas and on Brookhaven College’s campus.

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