Why The Cover? – Voices Carry: The Book

Explaining the Cover Art For Voices Carry

When you see the cover art for “Voices Carry: Being Sex Trafficked in America”, you just may be left scratching your head. Why is there what seems to be a jubilant woman leaping on the sands of a beach, with what seems to be a carnival in the background? This topic is dark. The subject is treacherous. So, why the joyous woman?

This was taken from a pivotal moment in the book, when Carry has decided to break the chains of being sex trafficked. Behind her is The Santa Monica Pier, clearly visible from the Venice side, where Carry lived and was trafficked. The cover symbolizes her escape.

For Carry, it’s the end of being an indentured servant. A commodity. A freedom from her tormentors who used her, profited off her, who (with her consent) stuck a needle of heroin into her arm almost killing her. It symbolizes her awakening, and leaving behind the hell of porn, escorting, of being sold, living with her trafficker, and so much more. In this moment, Carry has set herself free.

But has she really?

If you are reading this, and you are working the strolls, working the Cantinas, the Massage Parlors, escorting, working the Strip Clubs, I’m here to tell you there’s a way out. Maybe you’re here illegally and are afraid of getting deported, or your captors have your papers “in a safe place” where you can’t get to them. Maybe they are telling you that you have to pay off a debt that you owe them for housing and feeding you, and providing basic hygiene. This is the great lie. You are not indebted to them. You owe them nothing. Despite what has been drilled in your head, you are actually the one with the power.

Whatever your situation is, there’s help for you. Safe Houses, long term rehabs, social services, legal help. People CARE ABOUT YOU.

Call RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE. A real person will be on the other end to help direct you on where you can get help in your area in the United States.

You are not alone. You are worthy of a better life, and you are loved.