A Path Appears investigates young women in America forced into a life of prostitution and the innovative programs that have evolved to empower them to lead more fulfilling lives. Sex trafficking and prostitution. Domestic slavery. Teen pregnancy. The devastation of poverty. These troubling situations are happening not just halfway across the world, but also in our own backyards — in Chicago and Nashville and Boston.

The series uncovers the roots behind the incredible adversity faced every day by millions of women, while also presenting glimpses of hope and change.

The screening will be followed by Q&A with Ed Lazere, Executive Director of DC Fiscal Policy Institute (DCFPI) on the film’s relevance to  DCFPI’s recent report,“Reducing Inequality, Increasing Opportunities for DC Residents: Recommendations to the New Mayor and DC Council.”

Sponsors: Institute for Policy Studies, Community Cinema [DC], ITVS, WHUT, Busboys and Poets,Center for Media & Social Impact, and Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital.

Making reservations is recommended.

Community Cinema is a free monthly screening series, featuring sneak peeks of films from the Emmy Award-winning PBS series Independent Lens. In over 65 cities nationwide, screenings are followed by lively panel discussions that bring together citizens, organizations and public television stations to encourage dialogue and action around important and timely social issues.