By: One World Publishing
Uldouz Wallace, a prominent influencer, actress, model, and activist, has taken a groundbreaking step towards enhancing digital safety by spearheading The Protect Act. Recently introduced to the House of Representatives, this legislation aims to establish stringent regulations and robust protections against online exploitation, addressing a critical and growing need in the digital age.
Wallace, acutely aware of the vulnerabilities present in the digital sphere, has long been an advocate for online safety. The rise of deepfake technology and sophisticated AI has made it alarmingly easy to create and distribute exploitative content, often with devastating consequences for the victims. The Protect Act seeks to combat these threats by implementing comprehensive legal measures to protect users from digital exploitation.
“As a survivor of image-based sexual abuse and now an activist, I’m thrilled that The Protect Act has been introduced to the House. Anyone can, in an instant, become a victim of image-based sexual abuse through deepfake and AI-generated content. This bill is long overdue and will protect children, women, and men from getting exploited online. It will make a difference in so many lives. I strongly urge all members of Congress and everyone to support this legislation,” said Wallace, founder of Foundation Ra and the #protectmyimage movement.
Foundation Ra, a survivor-led, registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Wallace, supports victims of online image-based sexual abuse. The foundation’s mission is to provide protection and prevention, offering hope and dignity to victims regardless of their background. The Protect Act represents a call to policymakers to address the profound risks of unregulated online environments. By pioneering this bill, Wallace advocates not only for current victims but also for a future where digital platforms are safe and respectful spaces.
The Protect Act’s introduction into the House of Representatives is a significant milestone, but it’s not the only arena where the bill is making waves. Uldouz Wallace also helped introduce The Protect Act in Massachusetts and South Carolina, demonstrating the widespread recognition of the need for such legislation. The bipartisan support for the bill highlights its universal importance; it’s a no-brainer that spans political divides because it addresses a pervasive issue that affects everyone—children, women, and men alike.
One of the key strengths of The Protect Act is its comprehensive coverage. Unlike other legislation that may target specific aspects of online exploitation, this bill covers all forms of image-based sexual abuse, including deepfakes, AI-generated content, sextortion, revenge porn, hidden cameras, and hacking or leaking of private images and videos. This holistic approach ensures that no form of digital exploitation is left unaddressed and it prevents the non consensual content to be uploaded in the first place which is far more needed than the need to back pedal and take down the non consensual images after the damage has been done.
Moreover, The Protect Act tackles the root of the problem by holding adult sites accountable. The bill requires age verification and consent for content uploaded to these platforms and mandates the blocking of non-consensual re-uploads. This approach not only protects potential victims but also fosters a culture of accountability and responsibility among uploaders.
Massachusetts and South Carolina for the longest time have been the only two states that did not have any revenge porn laws, fortunately Uldouz Wallace has worked closely with legislators to help pass a much needed revenge porn law in Massachusetts and recently Governor Maura T. Healy passed an Act to prevent abuse and exploitation.
Prominent legislators have voiced their support for The Protect Act, emphasizing its necessity and the positive impact it will have on online safety.
Senator Mike Lee said, “Through negligence and inaction, tech companies are enabling revenge porn against women and girls like Uldouz Wallace every day. Online platforms need to do more to prevent this exploitation and allow individuals to remove images shared without their consent. The PROTECT Act is a strong step in that direction. I appreciate the advocacy of Uldouz Wallace and her fellow survivors for this vital legislation.”
Brandon Guffey, Senator from South Carolina explained, “I was honored when Ms Uldouz Wallace reached out about introducing the Protect Act in South Carolina. We are unfortunately the only state without a revenge porn law, and I found it fitting to add onto the bill. The Protect act is very needed not just in South Carolina but all around the world. I’m working alongside Uldouz Wallace to have The Protect passed in South Carolina.
Massachusetts State Representative Manny Cruz remarked, “When I first heard Uldouz’s harrowing story about being digitally sex trafficked , I felt both inspired and compelled to act. At the time, I was not yet elected but wrote Uldouz with a strong commitment that I would work with her to draft and file the Protect Act in the Massachusetts House of Representatives”. Said State Representative Manny Cruz (D-Salem. “During our first meeting I was so amazed by the knowledge, and the gravitas that Uldouz brought to table as we can begin working together to create the Massachusetts Protect Act. Through our partnership we were able to have a successful hearing and thoughtful engagement with the joint committee on the bill. I look forward to working with Uldouz to building a strong campaign that centers survivors of digital sex trafficking and exploitation, holds all perpetrators accountable, and advocating to pass the Protect Act”
“Filing revenge porn legislation is crucial to ensuring everyone’s safety in this digital era. Uldouz’s courage in sharing her personal experience has brought this issue to life. An abuser can easily upload humiliating videos or images on social media platforms, which can cause serious emotional distress, alienation, and loss of income. Now, with the partnership of Rep. Manny Cruz and the support of both chambers, this legislation will be signed into law and we can continue to build on it. Passing these laws has made the case for the Protect Act stronger. Together, we are sending a powerful message that abuse and exploitation online have no place in our society.” said Representative Judith Garcia
“I’m proud to have introduced the House companion bill for the PROTECT Act to give survivors of image-based sexual abuse a chance to hold their abusers and the complicit online platforms accountable,” said Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna. “In our increasingly online world, we must stand with children and adults whose private images have been degenerately shared, assuring they have the right to demand those materials be taken down from the internet. We must ensure that no one, and no online platform, can profit from exploiting others.”
Foundation Ra and the #protectmyimage movement are pivotal in driving this legislative change. Their efforts provide vital resources and support to survivors of online exploitation. If you are a survivor seeking help, Foundation Ra offers free resources and support on their website. To get involved, you can donate to sustain their vital work or sign the petition to support The Protect Act.
Uldouz has worked tirelessly to introduce the Protect Act on a global scale by initiating an international coalition. As a result of these efforts, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK have begun adopting their own versions of the Protect Act.
In conclusion, Uldouz Wallace’s leadership in introducing The Protect Act is a testament to her dedication to digital safety and her commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from online exploitation. This legislation is a critical step towards a safer digital future, where dignity and respect are paramount, and technological exploitation is effectively combated. The Protect Act is not just a bill; it is a movement towards greater accountability and comprehensive protections in online spaces. To support this essential cause, visit Foundation Ra, sign the petition, donate, and volunteer.
Published by: Holy Minoza
