Across the street

“This PSA is rooted in a personal evolution. For decades, my work as a photographer has been guided by a search for beauty, dignity, and connection across cultures. My camera has been a bridge, allowing me to witness and share the humanity that unites us. But in 2009, at the Global Peace Summit, I was first introduced to the reality of modern slavery, an encounter that ignited a partnership and set me on a path I could not have anticipated. In 2010, that path became undeniable when that bridge shattered as I came face to face with people enslaved in a brick kiln in India. In that moment, I could no longer look away. I realized the story I had been telling was incomplete, and the truth was far more urgent, far more uncomfortable, than I had allowed myself to see. This piece reflects that turning point and the years that followed. It challenges the common belief that modern slavery exists only in distant places. Instead, it brings the issue into immediate proximity, revealing that exploitation is embedded within everyday environments, including communities in the United States. The intention is not only to inform, but to confront the viewer with their own position in this reality. By moving the narrative from “over there” to “right here,” the PSA asks the audience to reconsider their role. Awareness alone is not enough. Witnessing creates responsibility. This work invites the viewer to see differently, to recognize what is often hidden, and to understand that change begins with the willingness to bear witness.”

Submitted by: Lisa Kristine

MIGUTI - Verguenza

“While organizing anti-human trafficking conferences with GSN, I had the honour to witness the testimonials of now-freed women like Paty, Karla and Neli.

But one time, at the UN, they asked me to translate their story of how being lured by false promises of love led them to forced sex labour.

Word for word, I felt a jarring pain in my soul as I wasn't just a vessel. I was now reliving their screams of silence. I was now also part of the story... and they, part of mine: a conscious storytelling rapper.

So, I wrote a song about them, word for word, as if I were them.

They loved it and asked about the musicvideo and if they could join. 

Filmed at the Vatican, Dubai and mainly in Mexico at their new home-shelters, provided by Rosi Orozco, it featured them lip-syncing parts of my performance of their true story, showcasing how intertwined we all are. 

Not just me and them, but the world. And we should all be ashamed that we allow children to be trafficked and abused. Not only our children, but theirs as well. All children are our children. Aren't we ashamed that this happens? Aren't YOU ashamed?”

Submitted by: Miguel Gutierrez

Human Trafficking is a Crime Against Humanity

“This short film seeks to highlight the harsh reality of human trafficking and modern-day slavery within our communities, while emphasizing the urgent need for awareness, accountability, and collective action. Through visual storytelling, the PSA aims to remind audiences that human trafficking is not a distant issue, but a crime that continues to affect vulnerable people across the world. The PSA was produced by acclaimed South African filmmaker Anant Singh and veteran actress Leleti Khumalo, whose commitment to socially conscious storytelling helped shape the message and impact of the piece. We hope this contribution helps amplify the global conversation around human trafficking and supports the initiative’s mission to expose and confront this crime against humanity.”

Submitted by: Sumeet Maharaj