Speaking for Ourselves
Published May 2010, Speaking for Ourselves provides a platform for 13 young people who were sexually exploited in Auckland to talk of their experiences, their opinions, their hopes and dreams. Produced by ECPAT Child ALERT, the stories highlight the incredible courage and resilience of the young people involved in this project.
| Children and young people exploited through commercial sexual activity are exceedingly vulnerable, especially those exploited on the streets. They are continually exposed to all forms of violence from clients, gangs, older sex workers, and other members of the public. They run the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections, HIV, pregnancy, and becoming seriously ill or injured due to the harshness of their environment. Victims of child sexual abuse are also at increased risk of suicide and accidental fatal drug overdose later in life. |
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"I don't remember a lot of the experiences clearly. I remember the shame, I remember the guilt,
I remember the utter worthlessness I felt" Amy-Lee
"I started sex work when I was 12. I got bashed up on the streets. I've done it, I've been out there,
I know what it's like; it's hell!" Christina
"I was aware of what was required sexually because I’ve had experiences in the past where
I’ve been sexually molested." Bugs
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Action
ECPAT carried out the research necessary to gather the information presented in this book. ECPAT Child ALERT will continue to work to prevent children from entering the sex industry and support initiatives to support the victims of underage commercial sexual abuse.