Some survivors choose to share their lived experience with the intention of raising awareness, educating others, telling their side of the story or the desire to be a force for policy change. Now that you have made the decision tell your story in a public way (whether it’s in writing, to a journalist or in front of an actual audience) the following are some suggested best practices that survivors can use to avoid being re-traumatized, feel empowered and stay safe in the digital world.
Talking to the Press:
You own your story and you always have the right to decline an interview. Remember, there is always some risk associated with sharing your story publicly.
Only you can know for certain when you’re ready to tell your story. Don’t feel pressured to speak if you’re not ready. You can decline or reschedule an interview at anytime if you feel mentally or emotionally unprepared (even when you have already said yes).
You may ask that the journalist use initials, a pseudonym (fake name) or remain anonymous – but remember, anonymity is never guaranteed. If someone who reads your story is intent on naming you publicly, they can.
Asking to conceal your identity in published images and video footage does not guarantee anonymity.
You can speak in generalities about your experience without providing identifying details like names, cities etc. Remember, naming your buyer(s) and/or trafficker(s) publicly can have serious implications for you and your family.
Talk to a trusted person about the possible outcomes (both positive and negative) of sharing your story publicly. Talk to other survivors about their experience with the media and how they dealt with the attention associated with speaking publicly.
Ask about the intended goal/nature of the interview and the journalist’s objective for the article so you can appropriately tailor your story/message. Your words/point of view may be edited and rearranged to fit someone else’s narrative. Be aware that the tone of an article can change. For example, it may portray victims in a positive light at the beginning, but then change to a more negative portrayal.
Do your homework. Find examples of the journalist’s previous work to ensure that you feel comfortable with his/her writing, reporting style and past treatment of this subject matter. Some publications will naturally be more sympathetic to this subject, while others will may want to sensationalize your story.
Ask for the interview questions ahead of time so you can mentally prepare responses and avoid any surprises. Take time to practice your responses to the questions out loud.
Journalist want a compelling story and can ask questions that are triggering. They may also ask for details or descriptions of your experience that are upsetting. You can say, “no comment,” “I’d prefer to skip that question” or, “I’m uncomfortable with this question, can we move on?”
Remember you never have answer any question that makes you uncomfortable simply because you agreed to the interview.
Ask for a copy of the article before it is printed, but understand that you have little control over what is published about you. Once your words are out in the universe, they’re there forever.
You may want to invite a support person or advocate to attend the interview with you.
Remember, nothing is ever really off the record. Expect that any part of the interview may be publicized, that includes casual conversations had before and after the formal interview.
If the case is before the courts, be sure to check with law enforcement and/or the Crown prosecutor about what you can and cannot say BEFORE speaking publicly or to a journalist.
Journalists can post information and pictures from social media accounts like twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Make sure your privacy settings are adjusted if you wish for them to remain private. (also see the Staying Safe Online section below).
Due to the public nature of criminal proceedings, journalists may report on the crime, victim statements, criminal proceedings at any time before, during and after.
Understand that identifying yourself and sharing your story publicly means that the whole world can search and will have access to your words/experience. Anyone, anywhere can freely comment on you, your story and make comments about the validity of your story. Articles live on forever in a digital world, once it’s out in there you cannot take it back.
Here are some examples of questions reporters might ask:
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- What happened to you, how did you become a victim of trafficking?
- What made you vulnerable to exploitation/trafficking?
- What kinds of things were you forced to do?
- How long did it take for you to get help?
- How come you didn’t try to leave or go to police?
- What types of fraud, force or coercion was used to entrap you?
- How was this impacted your life? How has your life changed?
- How did your experience impact your family?
- How did you get out of the game/exit?
- How has your experience with the legal system been?
- What do you hope to gain from telling your story?
- Do you have any advice for other young girls like yourself?
Things to Consider After the Interview:
- Do a debrief with someone you trust to discuss any lingering emotions
- Take some time for self-care or do something that is enjoyable and helps you de-stress
- Ask the journalist for a correction if you believe a mistake has been made
- You can file a complaint with the media outlet or provincial press council
- Let someone know (like law enforcement) if you are experiencing harassment from the media or others online
Are there things we missed? Do you have additional tips for speaking with the media? Let us know, we’d love to add to our list!
written by: Ashley Franssen-Tingley, Programs Coordinator, Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking