Hope and Healing After Human Trafficking: Real Stories, Real Freedom | with Kathrine Lee

Stéphanie welcomes Kathrine Lee to discuss, through the film "Still Hope," the harsh realities of human trafficking, the hope that is possible beyond it, and the life-changing freedom that comes from knowing Christ.

Hope, identity, and healing are possible, no matter the darkness. Forgiveness is a courageous, ongoing act that transforms not only survivors of trafficking but anyone struggling with pain. By embracing story, community, and action, each of us can help bring healing and God’s light into the darkest places—starting with ourselves.

Our brains remember narratives far more vividly than mere facts. The movie “Still Hope” stands apart from other films on human trafficking by showcasing not only the darkness but also the healing journey that survivors undertake. The film’s narrative is survivor-informed—real experiences, heartbreak, and ultimately, hope are at its core. This careful storytelling invites viewers not just to witness, but to empathize and reflect on their own lives.

A central theme in both the movie and Kathrine Lee’s work is the biblical truth that one’s true identity cannot be stolen—even by the evil of trafficking. The movie’s protagonist, Hope, has her name changed by her trafficker. Yet, she emerges, still Hope. Kathrine Lee shares a moving insight from a survivor: “They can take so much from me, but they cannot take my name.” This empowers survivors to remember who they are as beloved children of God, with purpose and the possibility of transformation.

Healing from trauma, especially such profound exploitation, is a long-term process. Pure Hope Foundation practices a trauma-informed approach, honoring each survivor’s choices and pace. Some survivors advised on the film, lending authenticity to its scenes, while others prefer not to revisit those memories at all—a choice fully respected by Kathrine Lee and her team.

Forgiveness is the critical theme. The journey is neither easy nor immediate. Forgiving doesn’t mean forgetting, nor does it diminish the need for justice. Instead, it’s about releasing the hold of pain and reclaiming freedom and light. As Kathrine Lee teaches, "Forgiveness equals freedom,” and is a process of aligning our lived reality with the truth of who God says we are.

Trafficking injures people through an evil community, and it is in healthy, supportive community that true healing takes place. Pure Hope Foundation offers a space where survivors develop life skills, work experience, and a sense of belonging. The film also shows how healing encompasses the families of survivors, teaching everyone about boundaries, safe relationships, and grace.

Awareness is not enough. Action is required—whether through supporting films like "Still Hope," volunteering, donating, or simply living out love and advocacy in everyday life. Worship and prayer also play an essential role, as these spiritual disciplines open our hearts to both healing and purpose.

Let’s take our place and bring hope to a hurting world.

Three Important Questions to ponder after this conversation:

·         How did the narrative form of "Still Hope" shift your understanding of human trafficking?

·         In what ways do you resonate with the theme of identity that cannot be taken from you?

·         Where in your life might forgiveness—of yourself or others—bring greater freedom?

MORE ABOUT THE MOVIE “STILL HOPE”

Hope, a teenager from a tight-knit community, finds herself in danger when the person she believes to be a new friend proves unsafe. Taken from all she knows, Hope is forced into sex trafficking and stripped of her identity.

After finding freedom from her captors, Hope discovers that survival is only the first step. Inspired by true stories, Hope’s journey is a powerful illustration of the courage it takes to walk the complex path of recovery.

“Unlike other films, this story isn’t just about the rescue piece but also about redemption, resilience and walking alongside survivors on their journey to healing,” said Kathrine Lee, co-founder and CEO of Pure Hope Foundation. Pure Hope is a nonprofit organization mobilizing action against the sex trafficking industry and played a pivotal role in the real-life stories behind the film. “It highlights the bravery of women and men who have endured sex trafficking and the courageous work of recovery. That’s why this film is so important.”

Showcasing the aid of individuals and organizations who stand shoulder to shoulder with these warriors, viewers of Still Hope will be encouraged to join arms with advocates in the fight against trafficking.

“Your voice and your support matters,” said Natalie Grant, cofounder of Hope for Justice, nine-time GRAMMY® nominee and supporter of Still Hope. “I want to encourage viewers to join this important and courageous work of healing—not just for each individual impacted by sex trafficking but for the dedicated advocates guiding those who are ready to receive support.”

More at https://stillhopemovie.com/ 

MORE ABOUT PURE HOPE FOUNDATION WITH KATHRINE LEE

Kathrine Lee is the co-founder of Pure Hope Foundation, a second-stage program that restores survivors and aids in ending the demand for sex trafficking. They offer stabilized survivors continued healing, personal development, extended educational support and vocational skills to help them acquire skills that will allow for healthy, independent lives. The activities in Hope Home include trauma-informed restoration programming. Examples of programming include multidisciplinary therapies, nutritional education, GED pursuit, College Prep, educational assistance, financial literacy/education, Bible study and application, etc.

More at https://purehopefoundation.com/ 

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