By Maegan Murray, WSU Tri-Cities
RICHLAND, Wash. – Participants will use MP3 players and smartphones to step into the life of a human trafficking victim during a multisensory exhibition known as “SOLD: The Human Trafficking Experience,” April 6-9 at Washington State University Tri-Cities.
Suited for those age 13 and older, the free exhibition combines technology with true stories to educate visitors about human trafficking locally and globally through the lives of victims in nine parts of the world.
The exhibition runs 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and until 7 p.m. on April 7, in Consolidated Information Center 120/120A. Developed by a nonprofit Christian organization called Mirror Ministries, the exhibit travels in the Pacific Northwest. For more information, visit http://www.soldexp.com.
“There are still far too many people who either don’t know about trafficking or choose to dismiss it,” said WSU Tri-Cities nursing instructor Kay Olson. “The reality is that it does happen and it happens here in our community. No one should ever have to live like this.
“I want people to know what trafficking looks like and to question situations that don’t seem right,” she said. “Then, I want them to take action, at whatever level they are able, even if it’s just a phone call to alert local authorities.”
A “recovery room” at the end of the exhibition lets visitors learn about what is being done for human trafficking victims and how they can participate. Visitors will also be encouraged to blog about their experience in the exhibition.
Contacts:
Kay Olson, WSU Tri-Cities nursing instructor, 509-372-7165, olson7@wsu.edu
Maegan Murray, WSU Tri-Cities public relations specialist, 509-372-7333, maegan.murray@tricity.wsu.edu
