'Journey' Into Sex Trafficking Darkness

Emma Thompson’s “Journey” art installation the articulates sex trafficking from the woman’s point of view has opened for a short stay in New York City. The installation is in Manhattan’s Washing Square Park from today, Nov. 10, 1009 until Sunday Nov. 15, 2009.

Emma Thompson said: “People just don’t want to know about this issue - it’s hidden, it’s criminal, it’s perverse and yes, it’s happening right on your own doorstep. Journey is a remarkable piece of collaborative, creative and confrontational art that profoundly challenges people’s perspective. Come and see it for yourself and then tell us if you agree….”  Hear Thompson talk on ABC News about “Journey” via IWR Sex Trafficking.

Thompson’s medium in ‘Journey’ is seven transport containers to illustrate the brutal and harrowing experiences of women sold into the sex trade. The actress who is Chair of the Helen Bamber Foundation shares her thoughts about sex trafficking in this interview.

Mayor Bloomberg said: “Journey brings human trafficking out of the shadows - I hope its arrival in New York sparks a conversation among New Yorkers about this pernicious form of exploitation. My Administration has used coordinated enforcement, tough new laws, and partnerships with service providers to fight human trafficking. Our efforts are overseen by a task force of police, prosecutors, service providers, advocacy groups and academics who welcome Journey and the unique attention it will bring this inhumane and criminal activity.”

Hours of Operation are: Tuesday, November 10th - Friday, November 13th 12pm-8pm, Saturday, November 14th 11am-7pm and Sunday, November 15th 10am-3pm. Produced in partnership with the City of New York and the City of London.

More reading: Emma Thompson’s Journey UNODC