Film Screening – In Depth Look at Orphanage Trafficking
Rising Voices Film Series – Shedding light on forms of human trafficking that are too often overlooked, underrepresented, or unknown.
Our First Film: Volunteers Needed — The Truth Behind Orphanage Volunteerism
Across the globe, children are being trafficked through exploitative orphanages—taken from their families and communities, not because they are orphans, but because these institutions profit from well-meaning donations and volunteerism.
Shockingly, 80% of children in orphanages have at least one living parent. The consequences of forcibly separating children from their families, culture, and language are profound. These youth are thrust into relationships with well-intentioned but untrained and unvetted volunteers, who are misled into thinking they are offering hope and a better future.
Following the screening, join a panel discussion with filmmaker Barak Laub, two subject matter experts, and moderator Assemblymember Gail Pellerin.
Fair trade crafts made by mothers around the world will be featured in the Lobby.
Tickets are free or option to donate to help end child trafficking and support survivors in Santa Cruz.
