In a recent Newsweek article, "What Child Trafficking Expert Really Thinks About 'Sound of Freedom,'" Dr. Rachel Lovell, Assistant Professor of Criminology and Director of the Criminology Research Center at the Levin College, takes a critical look at the representation of human trafficking in the popular film, "Sound of Freedom."

In the article, she highlights the stark discrepancy between the portrayal of human trafficking in the media and the actual experiences of victims. She emphasizes that human trafficking rarely aligns with the dramatic scenarios depicted in films, such as individuals being forcibly taken from malls. Instead, victims are often ensnared into trafficking through their vulnerabilities, frequently by individuals they trust and have close relationships with.

Dr. Lovell underscores the importance of shifting the focus away from the sensationalized aspects of trafficking, including perpetrators and rescuers, who tend to dominate the narrative. She encourages a greater emphasis on the stories and needs of survivors, whose voices often go unheard amidst the sensationalism of media portrayals.

Her insights provide a thought-provoking perspective on the representation of human trafficking in popular culture and raise awareness about the necessity of portraying this critical issue with accuracy and sensitivity.