Fighting sex trafficking: Art created by teens raises awareness of serious issue in city

MILWAUKEE -- Fighting sex trafficking in Milwaukee. It is a topic getting more attention at City Hall these days -- and it's thanks to a group of local youth.

Paintings on display in the rotunda at City Hall right now aim to raise awareness about sex trafficking in Milwaukee. Each piece of art is made by a group of young people -- middle school to high school age.

Art representing sex trafficking at City Hall

"The sex trafficking issue in Milwaukee surfaced especially in the neighborhood we are at near 20th and North," said Jody Rhodes, director of Neu Life Community Development.

Art representing sex trafficking at City Hall

Through art reach, Neu Life Community Development and Zonta Milwaukee have teamed up to educate Milwaukee's youth about the signs of sex trafficking. That's because the average age of a sex trafficking victim when they are recruited is 12 to 13 years old.

"The guys who are very eager to sell a woman the quickest dream possible, tell her 'I can make you a star' or 'I can make you a beautiful model,'" said Devonte Bonds, assistant site coordinator for Neu Life Community Development.

Art representing sex trafficking at City Hall

"We want to make sure they don't get involved," said Rhodes.

The teens put their feelings to canvas after researching data from Milwaukee's Human Trafficking Task Force -- reading case studies and studying local, state and global trends.

Art representing sex trafficking at City Hall

A 2013 report by the Milwaukee Homicide Review Commission found 77 victims of sex trafficking.

"We want to get rid of this issue here in Milwaukee. It is not right that any child anyone goes through this type of experience," said Rhodes.

Art representing sex trafficking at City Hall