We rely upon strong stories and eye-catching images when writing about modern slavery. Raising awareness of the issues and the prevalence of modern slavery is essential, but so often, as survivors of slavery tell us, the images and language used to tell these stories do not reflect them accurately or in a dignified way.
Too often we speak on behalf of survivors and sensationalize the experience of modern slavery today. Sensationalist images and language can unintentionally create or reinforce stereotypes or negative prejudices.
You can help change this by adopting the My Story, My Dignity Pledge as an individual or on behalf of an organization, company or institution that publicly shares human trafficking and modern slavery information and cases. By adhering to the pledge, you can help ensure accurate and respectful representations, so that together, we build a movement that supports survivors and motivates action helping bring it to an end.
The My Story, My Dignity Pledge principles:
- Choose respectful images that are representative of the issue. Choose stock images carefully.
- Select text that accurately represents the story. Be careful to avoid sensationalist language.
- Respect survivors’ right to privacy and dignity.
- Obtain prior consent to using a personal story, be transparent and accurate about the process and how it will be used.
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Vanda R.,
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Valerie C.,
Jane R.,
Is there any available work in this field to join in working to end trafficking?
waiting for a reply from NSW Premier ‘s office to confirm Slavery bill although passed, not enforced as advisd, it appears more information is needed it appears, .I sent a please explain follow-up a week ago bby snail mail.
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dont think they would leave me alive — thanks for what you do
Could you give some concrete examples of respectful usage of images (especially when using stock photos) and reporting without sensationalising?
Hi Sudeshna,
Thank you for your message. We have just published our content guidelines that provide examples of respectful visual representations. You can access our guidelines here.
Could you explain how being enslaved could be described without sensationalist language, while still being accurate?