How to Advocate by Hosting a Digital Watch Party
An important part of the fight against human trafficking is awareness. One way that advocates can spread awareness and educate others is by hosting a digital watch party. A digital watch party is a virtual event intended to create thoughtful dialogue, in this case about human trafficking. Creating a space for this type of advocacy may feel overwhelming at first, which is exactly why we want to help you plan an educational and effective watch party.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all become much more familiar with virtual events. When hosting your digital watch party, it is important to download an application that allows you to share your screen and sound with views. Popular platforms for hosting an online party include Zoom, Google Duo and Kast.
“How can we continue to engage in and encourage more conversations around human trafficking with those we know and love? ”
Additionally, it may be helpful to send a link to the movie to your guests prior to the start of the party in case there are any streaming issues that arise when playing the movie. Sending out an invitation through text message or email is a quick and easy way to let those around you know about the event. Once you have planned a time to meet, you can jump on the call, talk, and watch a documentary, movie or film.
When it comes to educating our communities, your voice has the power to make an impact. Beginning the party with why you decided to host the event is a way to engage your guests and let them know why this subject is important. Here are a few facts about trafficking to share before the film begins. The hope is that these facts allow the guests to gain a better understanding of human trafficking as they prepare to see the video.
A still from Hosea, a powerful & watch party-worthy film shining a light on human trafficking.
Fast facts about human trafficking
The National Human Trafficking Hotline defines human trafficking by stating, “Human trafficking is the business of stealing freedom for profit. In some cases, traffickers trick, defraud or physically force victims into providing commercial sex. In others, victims are lied to, assaulted, threatened or manipulated into working under inhumane, illegal or otherwise unacceptable conditions.”
Human trafficking generates $150 billion US dollars every year.
Human trafficking is happening in every state in the US.
The reason it is important to educate our communities is that education leads to awareness, and awareness leads to action. There are many misconceptions that circulate about trafficking, and creating the space to inform others using factual information allows for powerful conversations to take place. Additionally, this allows for conversation about the signs of human trafficking, which can equip your guests to recognize it within your own city. Each part of this conversation ultimately points to identifying trafficking and empowering survivors.
In order to continue the conversation after watching, here are some questions that can be proposed to the group:
What about the film surprised you? Why?
How can we continue to engage in and encourage more conversations around human trafficking with those we know and love?
What was something you learned during the film?
What actions can you take to learn more about human trafficking and contribute to anti-trafficking advocacy work?
As you answer these questions, think about what steps you can take to influence trafficking policy where you are. Take a look at The Dressember Network in order to learn more about organizations worthy of your support as well.
Before you go, here are some examples of media you may want to view at your next digital watch party:
Hosea - This film is a modern-day retelling of the ancient story of Hosea through the eyes of the female main character. Hosea features a young woman named Cate whose first love has returned to her hometown. Cate is presented with an opportunity to leave the sex trade. Throughout the film, she navigates the difficulty that comes with this journey such as substance abuse, mental illness, and the messiness of love. In order to deepen the discussion around this film, there are screening kits and discussion guides available on Hoseafilm.com.
Chosen Few - This is a short film by the International Justice Mission, based in India, that tells the story of a system that has restored over 100 survivors of sex trafficking. Though short, this film offers a deeper look into child exploitation. Additionally, the story emphasizes the need for a justice system that frees children caught in commercial sexual exploitation. (Use closed captions to for translation options).
Finding Home - This documentary, available to rent on Amazon, tells the story of three Cambodian women who were sex trafficked from a young age and follows their post-trafficking experiences.
Ridge Runners - This is a film that helps viewers grasp the idea that the fight to end human trafficking is a community effort. You can rent it on iTunes, Amazon, YouTube and Google play.
I am Jane Doe - This movie, available on Vimeo, addresses a human story and gives insight to social and legal issues that have an impact on every state in America. The film follows the battle that numerous American mothers are facing on behalf of their middle-school daughters who are survivors of sex trafficking from Backpage.com.
As you plan your next watch party, keep in mind that it can be in person as well as long as all COVID-19 guidelines are in place. Joining the fight against human trafficking can take on a variety of forms, and hosting a digital watch party is one way to stay educated and spread awareness of human trafficking.
About the Author
Shannon Haupert is originally from the West Coast and is now navigating life in New York City. You can find her anywhere with a journal in one hand and snacks in the other. She is passionate about sustainability, human rights, and creativity. When she's not writing, she spends her time working as a nanny, exploring the city, and drinking far too much coffee along the way.