156 – Reporting on Human Trafficking: Fresh Perspectives

This episode is brought to you by Vanguard University and the Global Center for Women and Justice, who offer an incredible anti-human trafficking certificate. Whether you're a frontline responder, a social worker, in the ministry, a healthcare provider, or simply a community member who wants to help, this program is built for you. Head over to gcwj.org/ahtc to take the next step and apply today. ---Dr. Sandie Morgan and Dave Stachowiak talk about how broadcasters and journalists can tell the story of human trafficking with new perspectives. They talk about shifting the focus to tell the story of demand instead of just focusing on the rescues, and also discuss why it’s important to look at human trafficking with a public health perspective. Key Points We need to challenge journalists to move from awareness to action. Media platforms need to be careful not to dehumanize victims, protect the safety and privacy of a victim’s identity, and be cautious not to re-exploit victims through the retelling of their story. Language matters, we want to use terminology that shows the experience of the victim and allows the community to understand the root causes of these issues, such as using “commercial sexual exploitation” instead of “prostitution”. Media should change the perspective about trafficking to include the demand, healthy community engagement, and public health Think about trafficking from a public health perspective, which changes the focus from results to prevention. How can you, in the community, use your expertise and resources to help prevent trafficking? Resources World Health Organization Safe Horizon FAAST 148: We are back to the Language: Labels Matter 17: California Transparency in Supply Chains Act Transitions: Making Sense Of Life’s Changes by William Bridges Human Trafficking Certificate Program Are you enjoying the show? If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to subscribe or rate the podcast on iTunes by clicking here. Click here for FAQs about podcasts and how to subscribe. Haven’t been receiving our newsletter? Visit our homepage to join today. Contact us with questions, comments, or suggestions at [email protected].