The simple act of viewing this film sowed some very important seeds within me – that the abuse I endured was not my fault, that I was not alone in my experiences, and that my feelings of hopelessness and doom were unrealistic. 'PLAYGROUND' resonated deep within me and showed me that there was hope – that I could turn my life around.

Playground demonstrates the reach of the problem without being judgmental or forceful. It is more than a documentary, it is a powerful tool in showing that the buying and selling of our children can and does happen all across the country. The film has helped galvanize support for shelter funds, helped pass state legislation here in Oregon and has created greater awareness in the community. It has spurred conversations amongst leaders and led to a commitment to continue efforts at the federal, state and local level to help the young victims of sexual exploitation.

Americans tend to think of forced prostitution as the plight of women from other countries locked up in brothels. That is indeed a problem. But equally scandalous is the violence involving America’s teenage girls. This documentary forces us to confront this reality and raises another challenge[...]: the need to treat sexually exploited children as victims and survivors, not as criminals.

We thank you for sharing Playground with us as we work to raise awareness among policy makers. Its impactful narrative has served as a unique and visual way to engage lawmakers and citizens alike.