‘Trapped’ film raises human trafficking awareness

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) – A film produced in North Dakota is raising awareness about human trafficking.

‘Trapped’ tells the story of two young girls facing abuse and exploitation. One finds herself in a similar situation to another girl who’s gone missing.

Turner County Courthouse’s structural problems started over a year ago

“It’s a film based on hundreds of true stories here in America,” producer and director Ejaz Khan said.

Khan said the idea for the film came after his own interaction with a victim he met in North Dakota, where the movie was later produced.

“She was diminished to a point where she didn’t think much about herself, and it was done to her by her own family. I just don’t think that’s right,” Khan said.

Call to Freedom CEO Becky Rasmussen discovered the movie and decided to partner with producers to offer a free showing Tuesday evening at the State Theatre.

“We felt like it was a really good representation of what we’re seeing of those that are being impacted by human trafficking, walking through the doors of Call to Freedom,” Rasmussen said.

A tabling event and post-show Q&A were also a part of the evening. Over 180 people signed up.

“I’m so grateful to this community that it’s not afraid to acknowledge this issue, to learn about it, because as soon as we stop acknowledging that human trafficking is happening in every community is when victims don’t come forward, they don’t get the help they need, and that we become ignorant to this happening and falling prey to it as well,” Rasmussen said.

Rasmussen said South Dakota isn’t immune to these crimes, and raising awareness about the topic is a step forward.

To watch the movie trailer, click here.