 |
|
|
|
Tell us what you think.
Selected submissions will be posted here, so check back regularly.
How to Help
In response to some of your questions, filmmaker Andrew Levine has provided suggestions on ways individuals can make a difference in the fight against sex trafficking. Resources for community engagement and links to human rights organizations are also available. Find out how you can get involved >>
01/15/2008
Wow. I saw this film on PBS about 3 years ago. My life has not been the same since. Just reading the title again brought tears to my eyes for the women and children victimized by this horribible truth. I've come to accept that I will never be the same as I was before I knew, (uninterupted by commercial dogma that might have easily distracted me,) about the attocities that are allowed to take place "when good men (and women) do nothing."
To the person below that wrote that (paraphrasing here) some of these women don't even try to do better on their own, etc... recall for example, one woman in the film who was simply waiting to catch a bus to get medical care for her child, but was approached and convinced by an aquaintance of her brother, that he could take her to get medical care for her child... But as the story goes, instead, he sold her in to the sex slave trade. That my friend, was just the start of the sadistic brain-washing these women are dealing with. It's just the very tip of the iceberg.
It seems to me that you have never been close to someone who was brain-washed or you would know better than to judge these women and young girls so seriously.
Please be aware that most of these women, like many of us, started out with trusting hearts. Naivity? Maybe. Not socially sophisticated enough? Perhaps. Brainwashed by a society, run by men, where a women is very often, (though not always,) valued for one main thing? Definately!!!
This film provides a chance for us all to get out of our priviliged exhistance for a short time, and walk a mile in the shoes of our spiritual sisters who weren't born in the right place at the right time. (Except for a glich in time, it could have just as easily been you or I. That goes for the men of this world too, btw.)
Not that the U.S. doesn't, or that I myself haven't, had our share of sexual exploytations. If I magnify my experiences 1000 times over, I still can't know exactly how it is, to feel that my God might have died and left me completely,
and I was going to be alone forever.
The film's title is a stiff drink of humility for all of man and woman-kind. Drink it up. This film is not about God actually dying... It's more about how the Devil is alive, and living amoung us through-out the world. There is plently to learn from this film.
May God bless and protect all who believe in Him and that know in our hearts, regardless of what our individual lives might put us through, in the end, He promises to dry our tears, make us whole again, and serve justice for us all, based on the true intentions of our hearts.
KHughey, TX
6/1/07
Ratna Kapur
This is one of the most misinformed films I have seen til date on the theme of trafficking. Not only does it serious challenge the ethical boundaries of film making with the use of a hidden camera, it also continues to represent women especially in the "third world" as victims waiting to be rescued by the "Great White Saviour". It never acknowledges the ability of women, even in Nepal, to make the best choices available to them, to treat them as decision makers and subjects (rather than as objects) and displays no respect for their choices and the sharply developed survival skills. Nor does it provide any critique of the anti-trafficking interventions and the fact that today the question being asked is who is making more money - the traffickers, or the anti-trafficking advocates, ngos and lobbyist ostensibly set up to wage the battle against trafficking? And while so much money has poured into trafficking, why is it that there is no reduction in the numbers globally and in fact greater numbers of women are using usafe migration routes and the aide of smugglers and traffickers to move, because safe legal passage remains unavailable to them. Perhaps a film on the strict immigration laws, the strengthening of border security controls and new nationality and citizenship laws, might be a better place to start if you are looking for how and why trafficking is produced.
8/8/06
Brandie
God will return soon Just keep praying and trusting in him. THis world is getting worse and worse i pray for him to come get all of us who love and serve him.
6/6/06
I think if thet talked about it more on Tv or in the paper or something. Because alot of peaple dont even know its going on.It seems to me that peaple arent takin this as seriouse as it is or sinch it hasent happend to them or anybody they know they dont do anything abought it. I just thing that if every tried to do something about it, it would slow down.
5/22/06
Jackie
why is this called "The Day My God Died"?
5/5/06
Ehli Keel
Wauna WA.
1. How is impacted by trafficing all over the world is the women and children that are faceing being trafficed all over the world. The economy is impaced because the illegal black market selling of young boys and girls and also young women.
2.Trafficing is a bussines,the peopple how proffit from this act are the pimps who sell these young children and teenes. Others that pofit from this cops because a pimp will pay a cop off if he has realy good so called property.
3.To controll this problem they should strongly in force laws and also make groups to form against this problem and protest this black market pimps.
4.Penalties that should happen to these piumps is to every women that is trafficed under a pimp he should spend 5 to 10 years in prision, they should also have a sexual record that follows them the rest of their life.
5.Editional thoughts that i feel about this is that i now that we cant stop trafficing but we can slow it down and also we should stop this in all countries not just the u.s.a.
5/5/06
Kayla
Gig Harbor, Washington
This was one of the most depressing things I have ever seen. I have heard of Human Trafficking before but I had no idea it was happening all over the world, even here in Washington. To know that as I walk down the streets of Seattle there are girls and even boys being raped only feet from me. Itís a terrifying thought.
I canít believe that the Pimps and Madams can get away with inflicting such torture on such young girls. Some of these girls are as young as six years old. All because these men believe that sleeping with a virgin will take away their diseases. That is just ridicules. The most outrageous thing is that the police will just turn a blind eye on these girls suffering so long as they are paid enough.
The most horrifying part of the video for me was the ěThe Breaking Period.î Before seeing the movie a friend and I were talking about how if we were captured we would never willingly sleep with the men in those brothels. But after seeing what they do to the girls during ěThe Breaking Periodî I honestly have to say I think that I would rather just sleep with the men. Twenty men a day is better that being repeatedly raped in an hour, beaten and burned.
After seeing this video I feel guilty about how easy my life is compared to theses girls.
2/7/06
Kristina
I have read so many articles about Eastern European women and they are brutalized. It could have been you or me in that position. If that was me, I would have committed suicide, you just lose your will to live. I hope someone takes great pity on any of these victims. Nobody deserves to be treated like that exept those subhumans who do this them.
12/5/05
Trent Christian
San Francisco, CA
Amazingly it's already been a year since I saw this movie and it has always sat in the back of my mind as I'm sure it always will. I know at some point in my life when I have more money and education this will be a cause I will devote myself to in some way. I'd like to ask Independant Lens and PBS to air this program again and for everyone who sees it to raise awareness. I would never know of, or help these girls if I hadn't seen the movie. The most effective way to solve problems is to focus energy on each one individually like a laser beam until it is destroyed then move on to the next problem. I believe this is the most dispicable problem on Earth, it should take top priority, and the only way to fix it is with the combined efforts of millions. This tragedy must not be forgotten and we must not move on until we've found a cure. "A chain is only as strong as it's weakest link." We are all part of the same chain and I know deep down that even the pimps and johns would be happier contributing to a society free of shame.
7/28/05
Sandra Meltzer
Thank you for showing this documentary. I cannot get it out of my
mind and I have emailed the web site to every woman I know. I want
to make a difference. I cannot give money but there must be
something I can do. How would I get supplies to the hospices? If I
were to collect items, how would I get them to those in need?
Forgive my simplistic questions. It seems best to go to the source
of information, so I have asked.
Best Wishes,
Sandra Meltzer
Thank you for your comments and support.
Read the filmmaker's suggestions on how individuals can help:
http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/daymygoddied/howtohelp.html
Get additional resources:
http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/daymygoddied/more.html
5/13/05
Candi S. Cross
Atlanta, GA
Hello:
I wanted to thank you so much for having the bravery to produce this documentary. Unfortuntely, I was appalled but not shocked by this dispicable crime against humanity.
Through my work with Amnesty Int. and Fair Fund, I am aware of the depth of this escalating tradegy not just in Bombay but worldwide. However,what ultimately matters is that concerned citizens take action. We cannot just create additional theory and discussion. These children are dying because people are not compelled to act and assume they can count on government to act. (And obviously as your film displays, the misogynistic authorities cannot be trusted either.)
The film motivated me to write a letter to INDIA TIMES about their emphasis on Bollywood's latest fashions when their own children are being bought/sold and molested/murdered right in their very own cities. If you have other suggestions to further my involvement in Atlanta, GA, please contact me.
Thank you!
5/3/05
Kriti Dubey
Phoenix, AZ
I read with interest the comments that other readers had posted. Everyone seems to cry loudly and question why no laws are present to protect these child sex slaves.
While I am sure the NGOs that were highlighted in this documentary pave the path to stop child sex slavery, I have to wonder how many children are actually saved by the NGOs? The latter barely makes a dent in the entire system is so well organized.
I really would like to help - but I also realize that the political environment in India and Nepal is too corrupt to get through. Hopefully, the dollars that I send will see their eventually to the welfare of these young girls, but I would not hold my breath.
It is sickening that in the USA, losing virginity is a matter or pride. Ask any of these girls in India or Nepal - to them it is a matter of life or death.
3/31/05
Susan
NY, NY
I saw this program on PBS last night. I wanted to Scream!!! I wanted to cry and hit and tell those awful Indian men to stop what they are doing. How dare they treat these poor girls like animals.
May God have judgement on these men...they are cruel and inhumane...May the Lord bless and save these poor girls.
3/31/05
Reena Shakya
New York
Dear Independent Lens,
I thank Independent Lens for putting together this film and PBS for having the courage to broadcast it. We really need to bring issues like these more often to the audience of the Western world. Being a Nepali, I have been aware of this issue for a long time. But I am always so frustrated with the lack of awareness of these issues among the people of the Western world. Although Western audience is so far from these places of blatant human right abuse, they have immense power to stop these abuses, sometimes even more so than people living in the countries themselves. Often the patrons of these crimes have connections to political and business powers in the region that ordinary citizens of these countries often feel too intimidated to speak out against these crimes because of immediate physical threat to them or their families. But when there is international pressure, especially from donor countries, the government of these regions (especially for small countries like Nepal)are forced to take actions against the patrons of these crimes. Only then can these crimes be slowed down....And Western audience can be major players in this nobel effort by lobbying their local and national governments to make these issues a part of their foreign policy agenda.
Given the current political chaos in Nepal, partly due to Maoist insurgency, thousands of young men and women have been forced to leave their homes in rural Nepal in search of security. Many of them will end up in cities like Bombay and Delhi and their is ever more danger that many of these women will end up enslaved in the brothels....the saddest part of the story is that these woemn run away from the atrocities of the Maoists and the Army only to be brutalized by the brothel owners and their henchmen and brothel madames.....
Lastly, thanks to the resilience of human spirit, these women continue to inspire us, especially having met some of them in person.
3/31/05
Teresa
St Paul, MN
Excellent, excellent film.As long as women's lives are undervalued and millions of dollars are being made, this will continue. But what was missing is "who are the clients?" As long as there are men, mostly western, visiting the brothels there will be trafficing. That is something we can do by educating ourselves and our countrymen. Thank you for all your work.
3/1/05
Janna
WA
I havnt seen this vidido yet, but iv read books about this- mostly from India. After i graduate, im goin to go to collage to become a medical missionary and then to India. I thought this had mostly stopped, what an eye opener!
1/3/05
Lia Salza
Cambridge, MA
Gary Haugen's quote from the film resonated with me - it seemed so simple and so true. Our humanity depends on our willingness to stand up against this practice and protect our children from this terrible harm. This film is brilliant in its portrayal of the problem, and its focus on the survivors/activists who are working heroically to prevent sex traficking and heal those who have been victimized. This is everything a documentary should be - informative, moving, inspiring. I am telling everyone I know about this film.
1/3/05
Detroit MI
The human spirit is indeed resilient, but being resilient and having any measure of quality of life is very different. I cannot imagine the terror and abuse these woman and children see on a daily basis.
We are so selfish to sit here complaining about our petty problems when there are such horrific things taking place.
I believe with enough global support thru volenteers and monetary gifts this can be stomped out. We have divisions for everything else, why not this as well?
12/17/04
Chicago, IL
I watched the program with my wife and felt real sorrow for all these young daughters and sisters.
I really commend the efforts of Ms. Koilrala from maiti Nepal and Assistant director of "Sanlaap" and everbody from international justice. Because of people like you this world is in balance. Thanks PBS for showing it.
I was reading some comment earlier, Yes there are monsters everywhere who prey on young child sex slavery, but we have to be care as to not to blame the whole country. Just as many of us weren't aware until we saw the documentry there are lot's of Indians and Nepalese who don't know this is happening. We also have to remember that people who are rescuing these young children are also Indian's and nepalese.
Instead on blaming on each other's society, let's find a way help organization like Maiti Nepal and international justice.
God Bless us all and specially the young kids who can't protect themselves
12/17/04
Sebastian Byrdak
Chicago IL
I hate this world, there is so much pain going on that it hurts just knowing about it.
I am asking God to end this pain, this unacceptable physical use of women. I am the man and I hate men, I can't imagine on how we can physically abuse, rape and use women for all kind of pleasure, pleasure which is enjoyed with laugh. I feel like I want to do everything to help victims of traffic but I don't know how, I don't think I can, it's all over the world, what single person like me can do about it. The only think I know I can do is to sell all my fish that I keep and I waste money for and donate to women in need.
But honestly, what I really want to do is to pry to God for the end of this world to end this terrible pain.
I have a question, to all who reads this. Why government supports anti-human traffic and yet not doing anything about it. How is that? They do nothing about prosecuting and punishing pimps.
12/15/04
Agnivansh
Santa Rosa, California
This was a very moving documentary. It saddens us that unless a girl is considered to be our own daughter, we cannot find it in our hearts to save her from monsters. The economy of most third world nations create a situation, where children are sold so that a family can provide food for themselves. This is done at the expense of these innocent children.
I hope all countries would legislate like Australia has, where tourists who participate in child prostitution are prosecuted when they return to Australia. Such laws should be mandatory in all countries.
12/10/04
Independence, MO
Seeing this compelling and heart-wrenching film, I was struck by the irony that American teenagers believe virginity is just something to lose, and that sexual activity is a measure of self-worth. Recently I read that the truly hip kids now make appointments to have sex because their lives are so busy that they don't have time for the subtleties and hesitations of "real" romance.
Whose God is dead? Whose values are warped, whose lives are empty?
Our society places such a high value on "great" sexual experience as the gateway to health, identity, security--even spirituality--that it is no wonder it fuels morally bankrupt sex traffickers as much as it does the "ordinary consumer."
Yes, it is a crying shame that the government of India turns a blind eye to the captive girls in Kamthipura. Human depravity in such concentration and magnitude is a blot, a cancer, a curse on any nation's character. I sincerely hope that courageous people like Anuradha Koirala will be able to reduce the size of Kamthipura. In America, however, as long as our primary motivation is self-gratification, I am dubious of ever reducing similar exploitation here.
12/8/04
Randolph, Massachusetts
I was deeply moved about the plight of these girls. In a day when we are spending billions waging war around the world I cannot understand why more isn't being done to provide adequate medical help and medicines to save lives affected with HIV/AIDS. Thanks for this eye-opening documentary.
12/8/04
Michael Stuart
Elkins, WV
Thank you for informing us about the Nepali girls enslaved in the brothels of India. Wow. I wept. I bet Jesus weeps also.
12/8/04
New York
After Living in Nepal for two years, working closely with Maiti Nepal, as well as other organizations, it makes me grateful that this film was made to open the eyes of people around the world. There are many Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) in Nepal that are in the fight, all on the common ground of ending this horrible practice, educating about HIV/AIDS, and bringing peace and hope to these girls. Meeting them first hand you see their strength and respect their courage.
May it end soon, and may the girls in brothels now go home soon to their 'home', their 'Maiti' at Maiti Nepal.
12/3/04
Houston, Texas
I think sex trade has a global reach because of poverty, illiteracy and lack of leagl punishment to the pimps. Please show this film in all the universities and organizations in India. I lived in India for a long time and had no idea the extent of this problem was so huge. Readers: please spread the word of this film and something good will come out of it. There is no human being on this earth who won't act in some way to help after viewing this film.
12/3/04
Maryland
I have not seen this yet, but I hope to one day soon. I didn't expect to find something like this on the PBS station, but find it I did.
We all know, somewhere deep in our hearts that this is happening in every country in our world, even our own. I am also aware that these stories of horror and the true loss of innocence rarely appear on a regular basis to our eyes or television sets.
Humans are so ignorrant....yet some people seem to be blessed with kindness, which we need more of. How can we let this happen? This is a question I'm sure you have all asked. But what can we do about it? What WILL we do about it?
I'm only 15, but I'd like to propose that the horror that all of you have expressed shows that, excuse me, America truly is a 'sheltered' nation. I watched the "Pianist" and part of "Schilinder's List" in my english class and only 2 people, including me, had to turn away, while everyone else stared transfixed at the screen.
I know what is like to loose innocence...not in a ual way, but in an emotional and mental way. I pray that fewer people will ever have to witness this as we enter the new year. I have little talent as it is, but if there is a way I can help, a little way, I would gladly try and do it.
12/3/04
God has allowed evil since the beginning of man's existence because man has free will to choose his course of action. Without free will, man would just be a puppet, and that is not what god intended. But God DID design for people who have cherished was is good and right and decent to combat the evil in this world... He is very much alive, and very much at work through this documentary to bring restoration and healing to the women and children who have suffered such terrible abuses.
12/3/04
Marlys Burnett
Bainbridge Island, WA
Mesermized by the courage of the film producers and the several persons who led, and who found redemption. Was struck by the dehumanizing behaviour of those men who consider this brutal treatment of children and young girls as their right, a cultural practice.
I see that Seattle location seemed to be on the geographic list of places in the world where sex-slaves are brought in. Perhaps I should inquire close by to where I live. How do I start?
12/3/04
Nirmal
Los Angeles
Kamatipura is a virtual concentration camp for sex slave labor. This is located in the heart of the largest city in India in open view of the world in the 21st Century. How can this go unchallenged? The Indian govenment should be pressured to clean up this hell hole on Earth
12/3/04
Lincoln, Nebraska
I have never seen anything that effected me quite like this video did. It was so powerful, and it filled me with such deep sadness and anger. This situation is an injustice that not enough people are aware of and I want to do my part to help change that. Thank you to the people who made this film possible. The girls in this story are the bravest people I have ever heard of, and they all deserve nothing but hapiness in their futures. They will be in my prayers from now on.
12/3/04
Susan Michaels
Winnipeg, Canada
I commend the outstanding courage of the women in these films, whose lives are a testimony to all of us that we ALL have an obligation to help break this cycle of oppression, ignorance and horror. Thank God for the work of IJM and for their remarkable vision, boldness and commitment to make this message of great need for justice heard. May this message indeed ring out loudly around the world! My Christian faith reminds me in viewing this film, that it is easy to do nothing. Christ Jesus said that whatever we do to the least of these... we have done to Him. Perhaps the most crucial lesson for me in viewig this comnpelling film is also in what we fail to do--May each of us find a way, by God's grace, to make a difference. In a day of glitzy and 'unreal' reality television programming, I am grateful for PBS's commitment to sharing what 'reality' really is. You ARE making a difference. God bless.
12/3/04
Soyuz Shrestha
Fort Worth, TX
It was great to see this issue raised. Hopefully, it will raise more awareness about this issue. Even though I had heard about this problem, I had never felt that close to understanding it until this film. Being from Nepal, I had to rethink what it means for me to be a Nepali and what I need to do to better myself and my country. I want more people see this film and get invovled in helping out Maiti Nepal or other organizations fighting the problem from the frontlines. I myself want to be more invovled by some means that can make some change in the lives of victims of sex trafficking.
It might seem hopeless that countries like Nepal do not have laws to prevent such atrocities. But individuals can hopefully make a difference too.
12/3/04
Seema Shastri
Thank you so much for talking about an issue that the world would rather have swept under the rug. As a child I traveled to India frequently to visit relatives. As I became older my visits dwindled as I realized that being a woman in India means something entirely different from being a woman in the U.S. There is one aspect that I as a woman need to understand. I cannot seem to understand the world of these men who seem to have no shame, embarrassment, compassion or what some would say, a soul. I know that these men are our fathers, brothers, cousins and sons. They have been able to live their lives without being answerable to anyone. Why? Where does this behavior really stem from? When Anuradha confronted that man who was a trafficker he stood silent and motionless. But what really is going through the minds of these men who visit these brothels. The people who traffick in humans. I know economics is a big factor but not every poor person gets involved in this trade. There is something happening in the heart and minds of these perpetrators that needs to be discussed in the open so that we may better get at the root of this problem.
12/3/04
Stefanie Golkowski
Tucson, AZ
This movie opened my eyes to a horror in our world. I know the terror and hopeless feeling of being abused.I found strength from within and from God to get me out of my situation. I was so glad there are people willing to rescue those girls, and the strength the other girls showed by going back to rescue others was absolutely amazing. I was so proud of them, and wanted to hug them all. It blew my mind that they went back to the nightmare and faced what was there. The people need to continue being educated on AIDS and other issues. Our human spirit is reslient by nature, we can survive the most horrible epidemics and situations, but need the will and push from other humans or a Higher Power. This continuing problem is a passion for money and the traffickers seem to have have lost their conscience.I believe the fighters against the traffickers is doing a world of good. If ther is a war on drugs , there should also be a war on sex trafficking. Icommend and say a prayer for all who are involved.
12/3/04
Steve Heidmann
Thousand Oaks Ca
I am the father of three daughters,stepfather of one.
Who reading this will help me propogate a movement to ask all americans receiving India based call center corresponence to first ask the caller, who we can assume is college educated and english speaking, for their personal thoughts on the ineffective law enforcement in India. Maybe their employers will take notice. I think massive Irritation could start a new front.
12/3/04
This film is just as much relevant of what is going on in the USA, Mexico, South America,Russia, China etc.
Seeing this film makes me re-evaluate one of the five deadly passions of the mind: Lust
When women and children are treated with equal respect and rights in the world, we will see less terrorism.
12/1/04
jp
Los Angeles
Women will be the last group to be liberated, and I'm a male of color. This is why this movie was so needed, however, a critical hole was the lack of education for the men.
A woman is beaten in America every few minutes - there is a REAL CONNECTION between that and girls being gang raped in Nepal. THAT's consciousness. DOING something about it - contributing money, lobbying, protesting, writing, making a documentary film... that's consciousness in action.
And don't be fooled: this isn't just a "poor people's problem." plenty of white American and European males go to Bangkok...
As I said: education for men.
12/1/04
Tim OConnor
I used to teach English in Nepal,so I was very disturbed to see this film. This slave trade practice needs to be addressed by every goverment in the world. The wealthier countries need to put money into a program to curtail this hidious practice. Poverty and education(lack or) most likely contribute to these violations. Yes, I believe commitment will help stop it. Organization will help those committed to stop it. Thanks for educating the public about this extremely important global problem. Namaste, Tim
12/1/04
Dear Independent Lens,
After viewing the film, "The Day My God Died," my heart was in anguish for the girls and women forced into such a living hell. As I pondered the whole social and political dynamics of this systematic crime--obviously a lack of political infrastructure; antiquated legal system; lack of educational and social services are all issues compounding the problem. As I thought of these things, and recalled what I knew about the history and culture of India, and I remembered watching a documentary on Bollywood recently, I believe on TCM.
I recalled that in this documentary that the rich and the poor alike went to see movies in India in masses, and that movies were even sent to remote villages for people to view on makeshift screens. I then thought that perhaps it could be possible to work with the film producers in India to create a film short or PSA on the subject of human trafficking in India that would precede feature films. This could solve some of the problem of lacking government infrastructure and funds to educate the population on this issue, since movies seem to be a major vehicle for most of India. Perhaps this is something that Mr. Levine could help arrange.
Thank you for bringing light to this issue.
12/1/04
natalie e. hessler
VESTAL NY
I VIEWED, "THE DAY MY GOD DIED" AT 3 AM THIS MONING. WOW. I COULD NOT STOP WATCHING. WHAT CAN I DO ? THANK YOU FOR BRINGING THIS TO "OUR" ATTENTION.
GARY HAUGEN AND THE OTHERS DID A GOOD JOB DESCRIBING WHAT IS GOING ON.
12/1/04
Peg O'Neal
Sapulpa, Oklahoma
I was so moved at the committment and daring of those who "routinely" rescue these women and children. But what I need to understand better are a couple of things:
(1) What is being done legally to change this in these countries? What laws are being proposed? What enforcement actions are needed? What is it in the culture of these countries that quietly acquiesces this horrible situation?
(2) What is happening in the USA? There was mention made of sex trafficking in the film, but what is the status here?
12/1/04
Newton Kansas
No, I do not believe anything will stop this murder of souls until therre no crooked police and people who cover up these crimes.While traveling in Asia I saw many westerners there praying upon children. The punishment should be so severe that would be deturent.But it was wonderful to see at least a very minimal amount of those children be rescued, thank you, seeing them dancing was wonderful keep up what you are doing and the victims that go back are very brave.
12/1/04
DC
Thankyou for exposing these things, which is the only hope. Thankyou also for exposing the attack dogs in the prisons, a program I didn't see but heard about today on the radio and something people MUST know about. Any more exposures of the whole torture business would be most welcome. It is so appalling.
12/1/04
Sherry Martin
Dallas, Texas
Great film on a soul-crushing topic! I was horrified to learn the details. I was outraged and deeply saddened. I cannot wrap my mind around the lack of basic human rights in this issue...and the lack of justice!
12/1/04
Winter Springs, Florida
Thank you for enlightening me on this terrible and tragic issue. It is appalling; I can't believe this actually happens. It was hard to watch, yet I needed it see it to be aware so that I may be able to help in someway. I hope others feel the same and take off the horse blinders and educate themselves to help these beautiful souls. The world is an ugly place when innocent people are left to fend for themselves, but beautiful when people come together and help save others.
12/1/04
Viren Shah
Dallas, TX
I just finished watching "THE DAY MY GOD DIED"
By looking at this film, especially as an Indian, I am feeling really really pain to see all these happening. The abuse to the girls being done is such a sorrowful event to watch. Each moment of the film brought a pain to my heart. it is so much hurting.
I appreciate the efforts you have done to get this things filmed. (Even have not seen any thing in India) Certainly, the title of the film: THE DAY MY GOD IS DIED is the right title. Nothing better than this can express this.
I want to write a story about the whole film. I don't know how to proceed right now.
I want each news paper, magazine in India has this matter published. I am trying to find why this things don't get exposure or why not too many efforts are made to stop and this business keeps on increasing?
Is there possbility that: A GOD WILL EVER BORN AGAIAN? OR will leave the earth suffering in an increasing pain everyday.....
12/1/04
palm springs california
what comes to mind first is, what do we as americans hope to gain by studying or emulating the society of India? how does out "corrupt amoral society" compare with that of this timeless civilization? where are the moralizing religious crusaders there?
12/1/04
D S Hamilton
Tempe, Arizona
I feel so drained after watching this film. It was almost too hard to watch, but I owed it to the young ladies and to the 2 committed women, Anuradha Koirala and Harleen Walia, and Mr. Friedman and Mr Haugen. I will not turn and look the other way. Throughout the film I kept thinking what can I do to help, what strategies would help them help themselves? I'm so far away! But then again, the US is culpable as well since the network has spread deep into our borders.
First, I will tell my nephew, who is like a son to me, what is happening. I want him to know that his sexual drive is a natural thing, a wonderful thing, but fraught with danger and lack of self control when situations such as these are allowed to prevail unchecked. I want him to view women with respect and compassion and appreciate the gifts we bring to men as a wife and mother to their children. I am so happy to see that the young ladies have found purpose in their lives by warning and educating people in the villages of their home countries. God bless the rescuers - I will not forget what I have learned this evening and I will tell my co-workers and family about it beginning tomorrow. The more who know, the more we can help.
12/1/04
Carla
Phoenix, Arizona
I was deeply moved by this film about the child sex slave trade in India and Nepal. I am very grateful to the filmmaker, Andrew Levine for making this film, and to PBS for showing it, because it is through these broadcasts that millions of people can be made aware of the horrors that are happening everyday not only in far off countries, but right here in our own backyards. I agree with Mr. Levine that the human spirit is by nature resilient, and that was made so clear looking into those young girls eyes, and watching them band together to speak out against the violence and abuse. Thank you for this film. It has inspired me to learn more and to seek out ways that I may contribute to such a worthy effort.
12/1/04
Trent Christian
San Francisco, CA
This movie has not yet aired in my location, but the information about it has overwhelmed, but not surprised me. From time to time I am reminded how truly despicable "humans" can act and there never seems to be a limit. I think this and other such causes can only be fought by worldwide education, awareness and compassion. How can we fight the evil of greed, money, and sadistic men when the good are always under funded, out-armed, and out-numbered? Much of this type of behavior seems to come from poor, under-educated areas. I feel this may be the case because logically and hypothetically, sex is a greater temptation in a town with only homes and a single store than it would be in a town with several stores, a playground, a beach and other options. Surely the educated and wealthy commit equally and exceedingly horrific acts along with the topic at hand, but I hope and believe it to be at least some percentage less. Short of Jesus coming back, I don't know how we can ever convince the world to give other humans at least as much respect as a lot of us give to animals. I feel there will be less evil acts if people 1. Had more to do and be proud of, 2. Realized they may be caught and that consequences would be enforced, 3. Had better opportunities and motivation to receive education. These are lofty and sadly unrealistic hopes, but I'm willing to help in any significant way I can. Even though the number helped when compared to those who need it may seem small, I know to those helped, the impact will be as immense as their suffering.
(While invading Rome, barbarians were inspired by its beauty and the impressive structures and society that Roman's had built. This opened their eyes when it contrasted with the rags and filth they had thought they preferred.)
12/1/04
owens s hurley
washington dc
the story was very sad see it wrong see things like that had. I feel that we need step up take control of this. we need to talk to the leader of all country to help out with this. i have god strong in my heart i am praying for the women and their children. i like to help i want startsome to help them out. let me know i go to church might help out with this problem. it my calling to help them out.
12/1/04
Jennifer
Surprise, AZ
The numbers related to child sex slavery and trafficking are so alarming. I am haunted by the thoughts of these young children being exploited.I believe very deeply that, individually, we all must be committed to contribute, at the very least, on a financial level to the fight against sexual slavery. As priveledged citizens in a wealthy nation I think we should consider a little self denial of our luxuries so women and children can experience basic levels of human existance. It isn't so bad really..... foregoing your daily latte could make all the difference to a child in bondage.
12/1/04
The Royal government could have stopped the trafficking of Nepali girls into India when it first started. Now this criminal activity is organized and entrenched, bringing with it corruption and disease.
The name Koirala still represents a beacon of light in a dark world. If another Koirala had been allowed to continue, forty-four years ago, in his elected position of Prime Minister, Nepal would have far fewer problems today, and no Nepalis would be so desperate as to put their hope in the same Maoism that brought the "killing fields" to Cambodia.
12/1/04
Melinda Capes
Whitwell TN
Me and My husband was wondering if there are any adoptions in Bombay and how hard would it be. If we cant be there to take care of a child in need, then there are alot of people here that would.
12/1/04
This is definitely a serious issue. An issue that must be adressed and put to an end. Childeren are blessings from God and should NOT be treated this way. Just as well as women are precious jewels who were never made to be . This world is still and has without a doubt going crazy. Whatever happened to the value and worth of human life?
Where is the love?Thogh there are still God fearing flk out here in the world who striving each day to do better and be better christian you still have those who are killing,stealing,and hurting others along the way and who don't plan to change.We are living in the last days, a materialistic time, a time where people are more rutheless then ever. A time where people consumed with greed take and do what they please in total disregard to others. God help us all...I'll keep you all in my prayers and remember we should always pray for our enemies.
12/1/04
valencia
This was very touching and unbelivable to lots of people But it's realty to many girls,women.Iv'e actully had my own expreince in some thing I thought was Similar.I was at river caenter mall in san antonio,tx and a man came up to my friend and asked for my number and she never told me.He called telling me how much he loved and how buetiful i was only 14 at the time.and was frightend by the none stop phone calls.He started to call and tell me that he wanted to marry me and to come downtown and he'll take me flordia with him and he'll by me all kinds of stuff,I made a police report on him and one day he stoped calling.so I think The people that are fighting for these younge women are very good people and these girls probaly are very appreciated and are waitng to be saved.I know that by going in finding these men will help out alot.Theses were buetiful stories and hope they keep saving these girls,women
12/1/04
Roger Higginbotham
Glen Dale, WV
This was an excellent film documenting a little known "secret" of the world. Bravery, courage, pride, these are all words that come to mind when thinking about the risks the filmmaker took in making this film. The survivors: these women are the real heroines of the world. Taking a horrific experience and turning it into help and freedom for others shows the true heart of these women. It is my hope that this film raises the awareness of those tucked away into safe little places here in the U.S. We are not as safe as we think we are, but few of us will ever experience anything close to the hell these women have lived. We as a people - the human race - need to dedicate needed resources to this worthy cause. The survivors turned rescuers--they are my heroes.
12/1/04
Laura J. Shiell
Kenner, LA
I want to help. When i saw it I cried to whole video. I am in complete awe. I want to help these girls. I am so anxious to learn about this and do all that I can do. I sat at home crying about my own selfish shallow problems, then I watched this film. It has opened my eyes. I feel like an uneducated selfish teenage girl. Well I want to make a difference. I want to do all I can do to help these women.
12/1/04
Janis Purl
Ben Lomond California
My God!, My God!! I sobbed after the end of this show.
I can't beleive that that much evil still lives in the hearts of men toward women. How could the police turn a blind eye. I don't agree with it but I can understand the culture of these girls home village to shun them when they returned. How can a society in the 21 century still behave like this toward any other person.
Please send me the information regarding the two groups mentioned in the show that are trying to help these girls. I would like to contribute money toward their efforts.
May I suggest that this program needs to be advertised (heavily) and re-broadcast as a prime time presentation. Every one should see this show.
My husband and I watch the Tuesday line-up; NOVA, Frontline and Independent Lens every Tuesday. Regarding Indepented Lens we have only seen two of these shows that did not move us. Please keep producing this show.
Love PBS
Janis Purl
12/1/04
James Roger Brown
Little Rock, Arkansas
This program was long overdue but is inadequate. It does not address the element of the child slave trade conducted through government agencies and programs in the United States. The child slave trade is particularly odious. I have been documenting organized criminal exploitation of children through the child protection, mental health, and social work systems since 1992. I maintain a page on my website regarding the United States child slave trade through government agencies and programs at 1. http://www.thesociologycenter.com/slavetrade.html I also produce the National Advisory On Organized Crime In The Child Protection System at http://www.thesociologycenter.com/GeneralBibliography/NationalAdvisory2004.pdf and wrote an evidence book submitted to Congress on child protection system organized crime methods and procedures at http://www.thesociologycenter.com/EvidenceBooks/COMPENDIUM.pdf If anyone has additional documentary evidence to submit I will consider it for posting.
12/1/04
kayley
missouri
i've known about this problem, and a lot of other problems out there. i want to help, i want to raise money for the efforts and get more people aware of them. how would i start to help, what should i do first and what organizations should i be looking at to work with.
12/1/04
Tiya Rosario
Fort sill Oklahoma
This movie will continue to stick in my mind for a very long time. and i want to thanks all the brave woman and men who brought this film to light. Exspecially the girls who lived though this hell they are heros.
I do think those who are fighting against these crimes will help in due time. the more people hear about these kind of crimes the more people will open their eyes. Continue to fight as, i will fight with you. i watched this movie,as a woman, could not watch and go to bed, this movie, modivated me to do something. I dont know what it is right now that i will do but, i do know that i will donate money to start and i will refer others to watch this movie as well. Im a mother of 4 the last child being a girl and i couldnt see my child going though something like this or being taken for sex and it is because, of my children and being a woman do i want to join the fight with you guys. anything i could do please let me know i will be more than willing to help. My blessings are with each and every one of you soldiers in this fight. i will prey that one day, all of this will come to an end.
always in my heart,
Tiya rosario
11/30/04
kelly
williamsport, pa
I was appalled after watching this, to think that this still happens now. What these brave women are enduring, and having the strength to go back and face their captures to rescue more is amazing. I say women but truly they are children. There has got to be way for all women,of all nationalities,to fight this horrific crime. This issue needs a loud voice. A voice that screams the injustice and horror that is happening. Even in the U.S.
|
|
|
