Human Trafficking Awareness: Free Virtual Event

To close out Human Trafficking Awareness Month and continue the conversation about trafficking and exploitation, Wedgwood’s Manasseh Project – in partnership with Kent ISD – is hosting a virtual screening and discussion on Monday, January 31, 2022 on Zoom from 6:00 – 8:00pm.

The event will feature a screening of the documentary PUSHOUT: THE CRIMINALIZATION OF BLACK GIRLS IN SCHOOLS, a feature length documentary which takes a close look at the educational, judicial and societal disparities facing Black Girls. Inspired by the groundbreaking book of the same name by renowned scholar, Monique W. Morris, Ed.D. The documentary confronts the ways in which the misunderstanding of Black girlhood has led to excessive punitive discipline which in turn disrupts one of the most important factors in their lives, their education.

“Though we know that all vulnerable youth are susceptible to human trafficking by the mere fact of being youth, it is imperative that we highlight the reality of marginalized youth being at greater risk of exploitation and other violence due to disparities in systems designed to criminalize verses heal them,” said Nikeidra Battle-DeBarge, Coordinator of Wedgwood’s Manasseh Project. “The film PUSHOUT takes a closer look at the barriers within the educational and criminal justice systems and challenges them to respond in healthier ways that change the trajectory of their lives for the better.”

Following the screening will be a “Blue Table Talk” discussion – inspired by Jada Pinkett Smiths’ “Red Table Talk” – in which local experts will share their insights on the film, the realities of this issue in our communities, and the implications it has in terms of human trafficking and exploitation. Included in this discussion are:

• Dr. Tonisha R. Jones – Associate Professor at Grand Valley State University (School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies – College of Education and Community Innovation)
• Marcela Moralez-Morris – Community Probation, Girls Court Supervisor
• Dr. Chasity Bailey-Fakhoury– Associate Professor at Grand Valley State University (Literacy, Educational Foundations, and Technology – Foundations Program)
• Meghan Aupperlee– HTYPE Grant Coordinator
• Brooke Davis– Director of Diversity, Equity, & Mental Health Services at Kenowa Hills Public Schools
• Nikeidra Battle-DeBarge, Coordinator of Wedgwood’s Manasseh Project and HTYPE Grant Lead Prevention Education Trainer

“This film gives us an opportunity to take a hard and important look at the treatment of Black girls within the educational setting and beyond,” said Meghan Aupperlee, HTYPE Grand Coordinator & Blue Table Talk Panelist. “When we authentically explore this reality, and the social and emotional impacts, we can move forward in ways that lead to positive school experiences and better academic and social outcomes.”

This event is free, but registration is required to receive the Zoom link to join the virtual screening and discussion. Register at https://bit.ly/Pushout-Blue-Table-Talk