My friend Thom pointed out a film festival about the sex trade happening this weekend at DePaul University. Here is the schedule from DePaul’s website:

Hosted by the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation & The Women’s Center. All screenings are followed by a panel discussion. Admission is $5 for each film, or $10 for an all day pass. Funds to support CAASE’s work on Community Response Kits to help communities end demand in their neighborhoods. Screening times and locations:

Saturday May 24 in SAC 254: The Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children

2:00 pm – Svetlana’s Journey; 4:00pm – Bangkok Girl; 6:00pm – Trade

Sunday May 25 in SAC 270: The Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Adults

2:00pm – Turning a Corner; 4:00pm – Demand; 6:00pm – Lana’s Rain

Maggie and I are out of town this weekend so will miss the festival. Of the six films I have only seen Trade (and blogged about it back in October). The sex trade is devastating in so many ways but important to acknowledge. These types of films can be a good/hard first step at recognizing an ugly reality.

If anyone goes to the festival (or has seen any of these films) please leave a comment and your recommendations. Thanks.

Related…

• A PDF of the festival poster.