Modern slavery exhibit raises awareness

The brazen images stop the student as he strolls through the library. He takes a step back to examine the thought-provoking artwork. His expression asks, “Why?”

Through the end of March, Mabee Library is holding an art exhibit in conjunction with World Slavery Awareness, focusing on human trafficking such as prostitution, sex tourism, mail-order brides, sweatshops, farm labor, housekeepers, child labor and child soldiers.

The artists are WU students, faculty and staff along with some local artists. Various media was used to create pieces drawn from the feelings and ideas that human trafficking practices produced in the artist.

Vicky Luttrell, co-president of Social Justice League at Washburn, began raising awareness for this cause five years ago as part of her undergraduate work in sociology.

“My hope is that when people look at the artwork it captivates their imagination, but also questions what the art is about,” said Luttrell. “Then I hope they do some research at the library on what human trafficking is.”

The event is open to the public free of charge and is co-sponsored by Social Justice League, Sociology/Anthropology Club, sociology/anthropology department, psychology department, Washburn Student Government Association, multicultural affairs, Leadership Institute and International Law Society.