Sex sells. It's a blunt adage about human nature that we can't ignore. Our world is overly sexualized. Sexuality is too easily monetized. And sex trafficking runs rampant around the world.
At earlier ages than ever, people are exposed to overtly sexual themes and images in advertising, videos and digital media. As women are objectified, young men become desensitized to sexual exploitation. The growing demand by those who'll pay for sex requires an ever-increasing supply of prostitutes, and human trafficking flourishes.
Anti-trafficking activists believe that efforts to curb demand, including criminal penalties for those who pay for sex, are an essential step toward ending sex trafficking. One daunting option is to convene candid conversations involving men about the harm done by paying for sex. Awareness of the lasting pain that this causes victims and society could lead to lasting transformation.
- Ask for three volunteers from the class or group. Explain that one of them will have to perform a difficult task, but volunteering will be very worthwhile for all three.
- Huddle with the volunteers and quietly explain: "One of you will have to tell the rest of the class that they will have an extra homework assignment (or some other credible, appropriate burden). You have one minute to prepare what you'll say to break the bad news to your classmates."
- Let the rest of the class know that, in one minute, they'll hear some really upsetting news from one of the volunteers.
- After a minute, instruct the three volunteers (in front of the class) to each draw a straw from your hand to determine who'll break the bad news. The student with the shortest straw must do the talking. Make sure that all three straws are the same length. Allow time for volunteers to express confusion, relief or other feelings.
Begin by saying: “Not many people want to be the bearer of bad news. It’s human nature to avoid conflicts or conversations that will upset others.” Then ask:
- Volunteers, how did it feel to know that one of you would have to upset your classmates?
- Classmates, how did you feel knowing that you were in for some bad news?
- Volunteers, how did you feel when nobody had to speak out?
- Imagine that the bad news was that this building is on fire. Would it still be a relief that nobody had to speak up, or would someone step up?
Conclude by saying: "There are a lot of bad situations in the world that aren't addressed because people lack the nerve to speak up. Sometimes they just figure it’s somebody else's responsibility. It's hard to challenge people about their role in problems. Whose job is it to talk to men about how paying for sex worsens the problem of human trafficking? Would you be willing to step up? What happens if no one does?"
Decide whether to leave these as rhetorical questions to end on or to discuss as a group.
Help us, Lord, to find the words.
Let your truth flow in our hearts, through our minds and from our mouths.
Give us the courage to say something, awkward as it may be, when we see injustice and oppression in the world.
If our words, Lord, can spare someone the pain of being hurt or exploited, give us the grace to speak them.
Amen.
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