Talking about sexual exploitation in youth
It can feel daunting to talk to our youth about sexual exploitation. And now with the recent situation at Mercer Island High School, it feels more important than ever.
On one hand we do not scare them unnecessarily or ruin their innocence. But on the other hand it’s crucial that we give them the information they need to protect themselves, especially when we cannot be with them every moment of every day. Everybody can play a powerful role in the fight against sexual exploitation. Specifically, I am referring to prevention. Starting with meaningful conversations with our own families and the young people we care about. If you don’t know where to start, you can use these talking points.
Imagine for a moment that you are speaking directly to a 13 year old. “This world is mostly a good place, but not always. In your life, you will encounter people who want to harm you. I want to talk to you about the very serious topics of sex trafficking and grooming. So that if you ever see the signs of it you will recognize it quickly and steer clear. Trafficking is when youth are sold for sex or really anybody of any age is forced into prostitution. And I know what you’re thinking… This would never happen to you and in our community and I hope that is true too. But just in case we are not so fortunate, please let me tell you a little more. Sex trafficking sometimes starts with a kidnapping, but really that is pretty rare. The more likely scenario is that an older adult grooms a youth into a trusting relationship before the abuse begins. Here are scenarios I want you to look out for: Adults who want to have a secret relationship with you. Adults who shower you with expensive gifts or free drugs. Adults who promise you opportunities that are too good to be true like a path to be a movie star, fashion model or recording artist. Adults who find ways to get physical with you in ways that cross your personal boundaries, like tickling, play fighting, or massage. Adults who want to look at explicit pictures or videos with you. If anybody asks you to do something that you feel uncomfortable with, come talk to me about it. I promise that I will be helpful. I will always help you. And for goodness sake, do not exchange nude selfies. Nothing good can come of this. And if the photos get in the wrong hands, people may use them to try and manipulate you or bully you. If you do share nude selfies, please come tell me about it. Again, I promise I will find a way to help. I don’t ever want you to feel trapped. I care about you.”
The most powerful antidote against sexual exploitation for our youth is strong relationships with trustworthy adults. If a youth gets into a bad situation it’s vital that they know they have people to call on for help. You can be that person for youth in your life.
Virginia McKenzie
Charter President, Rotary Club of the Pacific Northwest Ending Sex Trafficking
