Keep Your Kids Off Social Media - Nate Lewis | Real Talk With Zuby Ep. 364

The Work of The Innocent

Lewis shares insights into his organization, The Innocent, which focuses on training law enforcement agencies across the United States to proactively investigate crimes against children. The organization aims to equip officers with the necessary tools and knowledge to combat online predators, sexual trafficking, and exploitation. Lewis's journey into this line of work began in Hollywood, where he worked alongside Jim Caviezel, the star of the film "Sound of Freedom," which addresses child trafficking. This experience led him to work internationally in various forms of human trafficking, ultimately inspiring him to focus on protecting children in the U.S.

The Scale of the Issue

The conversation delves into the scale of child sexual abuse and trafficking, both in the U.S. and globally. Lewis emphasizes that 46 million survivors of child sexual abuse currently live in the United States, a staggering number that reflects the long-standing nature of this issue. He notes that one in three girls and one in five boys will experience sexual abuse before turning 18, with one in five teens being solicited for sex online. This alarming reality underscores the need for proactive measures to protect children from potential harm.

The Role of Technology and Social Media

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the impact of technology and social media on child safety. Lewis explains that the landscape has changed dramatically, with children now spending considerable time online. The prevalence of social media platforms has created new avenues for predators to groom and exploit children. He highlights the importance of parental awareness and education regarding the risks associated with social media, emphasizing that many parents are unaware of the dangers their children face online.

Lewis stresses the need for parents to establish open lines of communication with their children, creating a safe environment for discussing difficult topics. He encourages parents to educate themselves about social media and technology, as many children are more knowledgeable about these platforms than their parents. By understanding the risks and implementing safeguards, parents can better protect their children from potential threats.

The Importance of Proactive Measures

Lewis argues that law enforcement agencies must shift from a reactive to a proactive approach in addressing child exploitation. He points out that many departments lack the resources and training necessary to effectively combat these crimes. The Innocent aims to fill this gap by providing training and equipment to law enforcement, enabling them to conduct undercover operations and build strong cases against predators.

The conversation also touches on the societal responsibility to prioritize the protection of children. Lewis believes that preserving the innocence of children should be a collective effort, and he urges individuals to take action within their communities. He encourages listeners to organize awareness events, engage with local law enforcement, and advocate for the protection of children.

Understanding the Perpetrators

As the discussion progresses, Zuby and Lewis explore the motivations behind individuals who commit these heinous acts. Lewis acknowledges the complexity of human behavior and the various factors that may contribute to someone becoming a predator. He emphasizes that while some individuals may have experienced trauma themselves, it is crucial to focus on prevention and protection rather than solely understanding the perpetrators.

Lewis highlights the role of the pornography industry in shaping attitudes toward sex and exploitation. He explains that easy access to explicit content can desensitize individuals and lead them down a dangerous path. The normalization of certain behaviors can create a cycle of abuse, where victims may inadvertently perpetuate the cycle by becoming abusers themselves.

Taking Action

Towards the end of the episode, Lewis provides actionable steps for listeners who want to make a difference. He encourages individuals to visit The Innocent's website, where they can learn more about the organization and its mission. Lewis emphasizes the importance of community involvement, urging listeners to spearhead initiatives that raise awareness and funds for local law enforcement training.

He also invites listeners to consider making a financial contribution to support The Innocent's work. Even small donations can collectively make a significant impact in the fight against child exploitation. Lewis believes that by coming together as a community, individuals can create safer environments for children and help prevent future abuse.