Watch Blowin' Up

Blowin' Up is a 2018 documentary directed by Stephanie Wang-Breal that gives a glimpse of the criminal justice system in Queens, New York, and the efforts of its court to help prostitutes who have been victimized by human trafficking. The film follows Judge Toko Serita, who presides over the Human Trafficking Intervention Court of Queens, as she navigates a complex system of laws and regulations to provide sex workers with an alternative to jail time. The court offers a program that includes counseling, job training, and other social services designed to help the women leave prostitution and start a new life.

The film focuses on several women who come before the court, including a young mother named Lei who has been arrested for prostitution, and a woman named Coco who has been trapped in a cycle of sex work and abuse. Through their stories, the film highlights the difficult choices these women face in trying to escape a life of exploitation and the challenges they encounter as they try to rebuild their lives.

Blowin' Up is a compelling and emotional look at a subject that is often taboo in our society. It exposes the harsh reality of human trafficking and the ways in which our criminal justice system fails to protect its victims. However, it also shows the power of compassion and empathy to make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling.

One of the most powerful aspects of Blowin' Up is its focus on the human beings behind the statistics. By following the stories of several women who have been victimized by human trafficking, the film brings to life the harsh realities of this crime and the toll it takes on the people who are caught up in it. Through their struggles and triumphs, we see the strength and resilience of these women and the depth of their humanity.

The film also shines a light on the work of Judge Serita and her team, who are dedicated to finding a more compassionate and effective way of dealing with sex workers who have been victimized by human trafficking. Their dedication to helping these women is inspiring, and their efforts are a reminder that there is always more that can be done to create a more just and equitable society.

Overall, Blowin' Up is a thought-provoking and emotionally powerful documentary that raises important questions about our criminal justice system and the ways in which we can work to protect its most vulnerable victims. It is a must-see for anyone who cares about social justice and the fight against human trafficking.