Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 85 IT’S EASY TO GET SUCKED IN... PROTECT YOURSELF! Know the facts about sexual exploitation What it is Sexual exploitation is when someone uses power, authority or trust to make you take part in sexual activity. It could involve the exchange of sex for money or other valuable goods, such as food, drugs or transportation -- in other words, something you need. Or it could involve threats, violence, tricks or manipulation. A young person is being sexually exploited if they are • selling sex in order to survive – for food and shelter, for example, or because they are being threatened or forced. • used in pornography. • “trafficked” – moved outside their familiar surroundings to be used for sexual purposes. Human trafficking is the third most profitable organized criminal activity after trafficking in drugs and small arms. It’s against the law • Providing any form of payment in exchange for any sexual activity with someone under age 18 is considered sexual abuse. It is illegal in Canada and in every country. • The Criminal Code of Canada makes it illegal to procure or solicit someone to engage in illicit sex with another person, (often called pimping). When convicted of “pimping” someone under age 18, the sentence can be much higher. • Communicating with someone under age 18 for the purpose of obtaining sexual services is against the law in Canada. It is illegal to use a computer to lure a child to engage in sexual activities. It’s a violation of your rights! The Convention on the Rights of the Child – which confers rights on every person under the age of 18, and has been ratified by Canada and almost every other country in the world, clearly states that you have a right to be protected from all forms of sexual abuse and exploitation. It harms people It’s important to know that engaging in sex in exchange for something of value can cost you a lot. Physical harm can include: • Injuries from sex or battering • Sexually transmitted diseases including HIV/AIDS • Pregnancy • Addiction to drug and alcohol can cause long-term harm • Lack of access to medical care Emotional/psychological and social damage • Interruption in your education • Long-term trauma, fear • Social isolation, ostracism from your peers • Negative treatment by society What matters to you? Have your say! Check out redcrossyouth.ca www.redcross.ca
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