Uldouz Wallace, an influential figure in social media, acting, modeling, and activism, has embarked on a crucial journey to bolster digital safety with the introduction of The Protect Act. Recently brought before the House of Representatives, this legislation seeks to establish stringent regulations and robust safeguards against online exploitation, addressing a critical issue in our increasingly digital society.
A long-time champion of online safety, Wallace is acutely aware of the myriad vulnerabilities individuals encounter in the digital sphere. The advent of deepfake technology and advanced AI has made it distressingly easy to produce and distribute exploitative content, often resulting in severe harm to victims. The Protect Act aims to mitigate these dangers by implementing comprehensive legal protections for digital users.
“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, established by Wallace and led by survivors, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting victims of online image-based sexual abuse. The foundation’s mission is to provide protection and prevention while restoring hope and dignity to victims from all backgrounds. The Protect Act calls on lawmakers to confront the significant dangers posed by unregulated digital environments. Through this bill, Wallace is advocating not only for current victims but also for a future where digital platforms are safe and respectful spaces.
The introduction of The Protect Act to the House marks a significant achievement, but its impact extends beyond federal legislation. The bill has also been proposed as state legislation in Massachusetts and South Carolina, highlighting the widespread acknowledgment of the need for such protections. The bipartisan support for the bill underscores its universal importance, cutting across political lines to address an issue that affects everyone—children, women, and men alike.
A standout feature of The Protect Act is its extensive coverage. Unlike other legislation that may focus on specific aspects of online exploitation, this bill addresses all forms of image-based sexual abuse, including deepfakes, AI-generated content, sextortion, revenge porn, hidden cameras, and the hacking or leaking of private images. This holistic approach ensures that no form of digital exploitation is left unaddressed.
Moreover, The Protect Act addresses the issue at its core by holding adult websites accountable. The bill mandates age verification and consent for content uploaded to these platforms and requires the blocking of non-consensual re-uploads. This strategy not only protects potential victims but also fosters a culture of accountability and responsibility among content providers.
Prominent senators and members of congress have voiced their support for The Protect Act, emphasizing its necessity and the positive impact it will have on online safety.
Massachusetts State Representative Manny Cruz said, “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
Senator Mike Lee remarked, “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 also showed support by saying, “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.”
“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 instrumental in advancing this legislative change. Their efforts provide vital resources and support to survivors of online exploitation. If you are a survivor seeking assistance, Foundation Ra offers free resources and support on their website. To get involved, you can donate to sustain their essential work or sign the petition to support The Protect Act.
Uldouz has dedicated immense effort to bringing the Protect Act to the international stage by forming a global coalition. Thanks to this initiative, countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK have started implementing their own adaptations of the Protect Act.
Uldouz Wallace‘s leadership in creating The Protect Act underscores her dedication to digital safety and her commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from online exploitation. This legislation represents a critical step towards a safer digital future, where dignity and respect are prioritized, and technological exploitation is effectively combated. The Protect Act is not merely a bill; it signifies a movement towards greater accountability and comprehensive protections in online spaces. To support this vital cause, visit Foundation Ra, sign the petition, donate, and volunteer.