HANCEVILLE, Ala. – Cullman County Human Trafficking Task Force Chairperson Kathy Wilson has announced the release of a public service announcement video produced in partnership with Wallace State Community College. Wallace State webmaster and media specialist Jesse Cobb oversaw the production. Barbara Fowler of Hidden Gem Films, who recently produced her own nationally-awarded trafficking awareness short feature (www.cullmantribune.com/2020/01/23/alabama-human-trafficking-film-hidden-gem-awarded-across-u-s/), advised Wilson on the project.
In the brief video, just over two minutes in length, narrator Miss Wallace State Isabella Allred asks the question “Did you know?” and points out:
- Trafficking cuts across social, racial and economic lines.
- Perpetrators of trafficking come from all walks of life, including even family members of victims.
- Victims typically enter “the life,” as it is called, between 12 and 14 years of age.
- Online social media platforms are being used both to recruit and to advertise victims.
Wilson addresses viewers in the video, along with Cullman County District Attorney Wilson Blaylock and retired District Judge Kim Chaney, whose segment was filmed prior to his recent retirement. The DA’s Office is a partner agency with the task force, and Chaney, who managed the county’s Juvenile Court, was a founding member of the task force.
Blaylock, along with Jerry and Mary Ann Caudle, contributed funds to help cover production costs.
Wilson told The Tribune, “My hope is to get this video into every middle and high school in the city and county. Our children are the most vulnerable population and they need to be educated. This PSA is brief but educational, and it will give them the tools they need to protect themselves and others. Education and awareness are the keys to ending the heinous crime!”
In a message to The Tribune, Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics said, “We are glad to partner with our local task force to raise awareness about this important issue. Education and action are the keys to saving lives.”
Look for the video at www.Facebook.com/CullmanTribune.
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