Filmmaker to screen documentary about sex trafficking, host panel discussion
Award-winning filmmaker Vanessa McNeal will host a free public screening of her 2018 documentary “Gridshock” at 5 p.m. Oct. 24 in Hill Auditorium in Barrows Hall as part of Domestic Violence Awareness month.
In the film, McNeal, a survivor of sexual violence, explores the underpinnings of the thriving sex-trafficking industry, a global problem taking root in the U.S. She reveals a surprising culture of impunity that protects traffickers and the clients who drive the burgeoning demand for sex in rural America. The film challenges viewers to recognize that sex trafficking is happening across America — in urban and less populated areas — with stories from survivors of sex trafficking, local and federal law enforcement, advocates, politicians and a recovering sex addict.
Prior to the screening, McNeal will provide background about making the film. After the film, community partners from the Mabel Wadsworth Center and Rape Response Services will participate in a panel discussion about sex trafficking in Maine.
“The Voiceless,” McNeal’s first full-length documentary film, received an Award of Merit at Indiefest 2017 and was recognized as an official selection at the 2018 Denton Black Film Festival. This film focused on the trauma and resiliency of male survivors of sexual abuse. McNeal was recognized with the 2017 YWCA Woman of Tomorrow award and the 2018 STATEment Maker award from Iowa State University in the entrepreneurial spirit category. The honor recognizes early personal and professional accomplishments and contributions to society from Iowa State graduates 34 years old and younger. McNeal also was honored as a Best Director at the 2017 Newark International Film Festival for “The Voiceless.” This is her second visit to UMaine.
The screening of “Gridshock” and the panel discussion are presented with support from the College of Engineering; College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Division of Student Life; Honors College; Rising Tide Center; and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies at the University of Maine; as well as community partners Mabel Wadsworth Center and Rape Response Services.
For more information, or to request a reasonable accommodation, call the Rising Tide Center, 581.3439.