While sex trafficking and porn have both been defined as forms of sexual violence, rooted in a system of gender inequality, what is often overlooked is the way these two industries are culturally and economically linked. The first part of this presentation will explore how porn acts as both a method of recruitment into trafficking, and a major driver of demand. Drawing from empirical research and testimonies from porn performers, trafficked women, and sex buyers, we argue that as long as we have a multi-billion-dollar porn industry, we will always have sex trafficking. By unpacking this symbiotic relationship between porn and trafficking, we can develop a more nuanced theory and practice to abolish all forms of sexual violence. The second part of this presentation will highlight the most popular social media platforms accessed by young people today, exposing how social media has been hijacked by the porn industry. We will provide examples of how social media platforms are fueling sexual exploitation and prostitution, from the exchange of sexual currency in Live Streams, to the grooming and recruitment of young people into prostitution and sex trafficking. The harmful and dangerous effects of the collusion of these industries will be discussed. Finally, we will conclude with how Culture Reframed, through a public health approach, assists parents and professionals who work with young people in navigating the treacherous terrain of social media, pornography, prostitution, and trafficking.
Trigger Warning: This presentation contains information (written, spoken, or visual) that may be triggering or (re)traumatizing to attendees.
Dr. Mandy Sanchez has been researching, writing, and presenting about pornography and violence for 20+ years. She is a trained trauma-informed facilitator. As the Director of Programs for Culture Reframed, she focuses on expanding, developing, and ensuring high quality, comprehensive, programming for adults who are influential in young peoples’ lives.