Child trafficking is one of those things that a lot of people want to pretend like doesn't exist. It's a gutwrenching subject, and something that elicits an almost visceral reaction from most the first time (and maybe every time) one thinks about it. For some, even the mention of a topic like child sex trafficking is too painful, and the conversation never gets past the first sentence.I'm of the opinion that we can't do that; at least, not all of us. Someone has to stand up and say something, or else together we make Edmund Burke's famous quote the most simple, and most terrible reality. There are a
number of ways to raise awareness, from ribbons to videos, virtual walkathons and chalk drawings, conversations with friends and strangers, etc. What's on my mind tonight is if there's such a thing as being too shocking, too "realistic", or too in-your-face about making people understand what is really going on? Are there shock boundaries that we just shouldn't cross when trying to spread awareness?
I post some uncomfortable things on this blog, but I've actually drawn the line several times on ad campaigns or news reports that are just too disturbing for me to publish in good conscience. Where the challenge comes in is that everyone has a different threshold for what pushes them to action, and what pushes them away.
I'm going to keep relying on my own personal sense of the scale for this particular forum: but the question on my mind tonight is, if we're going to occasionally fall on one side of the line when promoting this cause, which should it be? Is it worth upsetting people to get a point across? Is it "right" to censor or sanitize what's happening to make it more understandable and digestible for you and me--or does this mute our responses?
Or, should we simply do whatever ends are necessary justify the means?
4 comments:
A worthy question. I've been wondering that myself. I think it comes down to intent, on the part of the person relaying information.
I think if in our hearts, we are relaying this information because we want to see an end to this terrible problem, that's the best we can do. As long as we're not 'going for shock value' or looking to play up the dramatic side of things, like so much of the media does about events, then I think we can rest easy. Certainly some people will still be unable or unwilling to listen. But we have to keep trying. I am very sensitive to violence, myself. But when I think about my sensibilities being trespassed by receiving hard information, verses the outright physical and emotional damage of an 8 year old being repeatedly raped, then I would rather face the hard truth.
Hey hey! Yet another intriguing question!
I'm going to be honest and say outright that I'm likely more opinionated about these types of questions because of my profession/degree. It's my job to do content analysis, to critique discourse, and I'm a full believer that language--verbal, written, and visual--all have an impact on not just what "gets done" to help a cause, but the way the public views those we're "helping."
It's things like, why the legal system and activists have started to call it "commercial sexual exploitation of children," instead of "child prostitution." Generally, the latter implies that someone had a choice. When the whole backdrop of trafficking involves "force, fraud and coercion," language is important. And I don't think that just means within the legal system. I'm incredibly against "othering" of a people in an effort to spur people to action. Savior mentality, rescuing...you name it.
I will, however, certainly say that there are positives to however someone gets involved, or decides to take a step beyond their living room couch. Past that...I think it's essential to get information and language correct.
But again, you'll have to forgive my strong opinions here. I've written entire research papers on the effects of othering and media discourse...so, it's definitely something I'm passionate about. As a designer in human rights work, it's absolutely essential I delve into the implications of what my work communicates.
Thank you, again...for always asking the hard questions. It's digging into these issues that really bring progress. All the best!
I can always count on the two of you to bring thoughtful, articulate insight to the questions I struggle with.
Thanks for helping me shape my opinions around this. I love hearing what you have to say!
I cant believe those drawings arent real they are awesome. Love your blog too.
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