Will you be a 21st century Abolitionist?

Last night I attended a private screening of CALL+RESPONSE, a docu/rockumentary about human trafficking in the 21^st century.  About 100 people packed into a small theater in downtown Seattle along with the film’s director/producer (and musician), Justin Dillon.   

 

While performing in Russia, Dillon met a young translator in her late teens who told him about an opportunity she had to travel to the U.S. for work.  Something about this “opportunity” didn’t sit well with Dillon and his quest to understand the plight of slaves in the 21^st century began.  Using his musical background, Dillon initially wanted to perform a benefit concert to raise awareness and funds for this cause.  However, as he reached out to fellow artists it became clear that a movement had started.  

 

CALL+RESPONSE exposes the horrific lives of the millions of children and young adults being sold into prostitution, slave labor or used as child soldiers every year.  It was impossible to remain unmoved by the stirring images and interviews with children from around the world.  Interwoven between these heart wrenching stories were passionate musical performances (from: Matisyahu, Natasha Bedingfield, Moby, Cold War Kids, Imogen Heap, Talib Kweli, Switchfoot, Scrolls, Rocco De Luca).  Actresses Julia Ormond and Ashley Judd narrate portions of the film and share their experiences working to end slavery.  Madeleine Albright, Dr. Cornel West, Nicholas Kristof, government officials and the directors of non-profit organizations (International Justice Mission, Not for Sale) that are fighting slavery provide insight and depth to this issue.   It is a compelling film and one I highly recommend seeing, but it’s only the beginning.     

 

CALL+RESPONSE asks the audience to become a part of the 21st century Abolitionist movement to end human trafficking on a global level.  After the film, Dillon shared about his journey creating the film and took time for Q&A.  A young man asked the question we were all thinking, "What do I do now?"  How can I be involved?  What can I possibly do to make a difference? 

  

The film will show in theaters nationwide this October.  Since it was funded by private donations, 100% of profits from the film are going to fund global field projects on the front lines of this issue.  The first contribution you can make is simply by going to see the film.  You will then have the opportunity to respond on a personal level.  Focusing on partnerships with local organizations and non-profit groups to accomplish actionable tasks, this Abolitionist movement begins with you.  Whether it through a financial donation, artistic expression, political activism, legal representation or social work—use your unique talents and skills to bring love, dignity and justice to the oppressed.  What will your response be?

 

-Amanda

CALL+RESPONSE Trailer

Additional Resources:

    

Comments

[Lyn]

Thanks for posting this review up- I definitely can't wait to see it myself. Another new resource is Gary Haugen's latest book called Just Courage (www.justcourage.com) and it continues to stir people's hearts to pursue the quest for justice.

[Amanda]

Thanks Lyn!