Survivor of Slavery

Shamere McKenzie 

Shamere McKenzie was in her third year as a student at an East Coast college. She attended with an athletic scholarship. Then she got injured and lost her scholarship. She needed $3,000 to finish school. She was recruited by a man who said she could earn the money by “just dancing.” What followed was a harrowing life of sexual, psychological, and physical abuse. Essentially enslaved by her pimp, she was taken from state to state. As she points out, “This is not in Thailand or China, but right here in the United States.” Not only does Ms. McKenzie tell her story, but she offers insights in how current American culture – from bachelor parties to Hooter’s restaurants to rap songs that glorify pimps – has contributed to the sexual exploitation of women. Finally, she explains her transformation from victim to a powerful advocate for justice. 

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Recorded: March 29, 2013