Mexican actor and film producer Eduardo Verástegui visited Capitol Hill to present his new film "Sound of Freedom" and urge bipartisan action to address the issue of tens of thousands of missing children and teens who entered the U.S. and may be victims of human trafficking.
The movie, directed by Alejando Monteverde and starring Jim Caviezel, depicts the true story of Tim Ballard, a former U.S. federal agent who founded Operation Underground Railroad (O.U.R.) to rescue children from international sex trafficking.
The film has gained significant success since its release, generating over $127 million in box office receipts. Verástegui called for urgent congressional action to locate and protect these vulnerable children, emphasizing the need for effective and comprehensive measures to address the trafficking of minors.
The screening on Capitol Hill was sponsored by Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy and attended by various members of Congress, including former House Speaker Newt Gingrich.
Verástegui urged lawmakers to take swift action to address this pressing issue and save children from exploitation.
The film's impact has been powerful, moving members of Congress to tears and prompting discussions on potential legislation to find and care for the missing children.
Despite some media labeling the film as "right-wing," it has reached a wide audience and will be released in multiple countries worldwide.
The production of "Sound of Freedom" faced challenges and delays but has now garnered critical acclaim for shedding light on the tragic reality of human trafficking.