Intersectional Injustice: Race and the Sex Trafficking of Black Women

Unpacking the experiences of Black women and the men exploiting them

In this powerful episode, we explore the intersection of race and sex trafficking, focusing on the unique histories and contemporary realities of Black women in the United States. We have long faced the devastating impacts of sexual violence, and these historical victimizations have set a troubling precedent for modern-day commercial sex exploitation.

Studies have noted that race affects a woman's risk for sex trafficking vulnerability and exploitation. Relatedly,it also shape the structure of trafficking networks and the personal experiences of trafficker, victims and male consumers. Overall, the research points to the need for deeper understandings and action to address these systemic issues, and their unique impact on Black women's experiences.

Dr. Jacquelyn C. A. Meshelemiah joins us in this episode to break down how racialized histories of violence continue to shape the experiences of sex trafficked Black women today. Dr. Jacquelyn C.A. Meshelemiah is a licensed social worker in the State of Ohio and a Professor in the College of Social Work at The Ohio State University. She has authored numerous works on social work practice/education, human trafficking, human rights, social justice, and leadership at the university, local, national, and international levels.

To learn more about Dr. Meshelemiah, click here.

More Works by Dr. Meshelemiah:

• Sex trafficked women, drug dealers, and men who buy sex: A look at “race”

• The Complex and Marginalized Experiences of BIPOC Trafficked Women: An Examination of Disabilities, ACEs, Discrimination, and Racism

• A Scoping Review of US Based Scholarship on Race/Ethnicity and Racism in Human Trafficking

• How the Jezebel stereotype has been weaponized against Black girls and made them vulnerable to sex trafficking: An examination of carceral public systems

• Training social workers in anti-trafficking service

• A qualitative examination of women involved in prostitution in Mumbai, India: The role of family and acquaintances

THIS PODCAST WILL BE AVAILABLE JUNE 23, 2025.

Season 2 Episode 13

Running Time:  25 minutes