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There are more slaves in the world today than at any time in history, according to human trafficking expert and author E. Benjamin Skinner in his book "A Crime So Monstrous: Face-to-Face with Modern-Day Slavery."
Skinner will join Drexel University on Wednesday, May 28, to speak about the rampant global problem of human trafficking and his experiences reporting from dozens of countries in which slavery flourishes.
In his book, Skinner aims to raise awareness of modern-day slavery through sharing the stories of individuals who currently live in slavery, those who have escaped from bondage and those who own or traffic in slaves, as well as exploring the mixed political motives of those who seek to combat the crime.
“Rigorously investigated and fearlessly reported, 'A Crime So Monstrous' is a passionate and thorough examination of the appalling reality of human bondage in today's world,” said former President Bill Clinton, in a quote on the book jacket.
“In his devastating narrative, Ben Skinner boldly casts light on the unthinkable, yet thriving, modern-day practice of slavery, exposing a global trade in human lives," he said. "The abuses detailed in these pages are repugnant, but there is hope to be found: by giving voice to the victims, Skinner helps restore their dignity and makes crucial strides toward closing this shameful chapter in history.”
There are more slaves in the world today than at any time in history
United States Senator John McCain also praised the book, saying: “Ben Skinner does a great public service by exposing the massive scope of human trafficking in the world today.”
The lecture will take place at 6 p.m. in the Papadakis Integrated Sciences Building, Room 120 (33rd and Chestnut Streets). It is free and open to the public. Registration is not required, but is appreciated. RSVP here. For more information about the event, please contact Jacqueline Rios at jsr62@drexel.edu. A book signing will take place after the lecture.
The event is co-sponsored by Drexel University Students Advocating Against Slavery (SAAS), Drexel University Office of International Programs, the College of Arts and Sciences, the International Area Studies Program, the Women’s Studies Program and the College of Nursing and Health Professions and its Alumni Network.
Skinner is an award-winning author and journalist who studies the U.S. and global political economies, specializing in modern-day slavery. His articles and investigations have appeared in such outlets as Time, Newsweek International, The Los Angeles Times, The Miami Herald, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy and on ABC's “Nightline,” where one of his book chapters was adapted into an Emmy-award-winning episode, “How to Buy a Child in Ten Hours.” Skinner frequently appears on national television networks including ABC, CBS, CNN, C-SPAN, FOX, NBC, PBS and CNN, as well as international and local networks.
Skinner served on the World Economic Forum's Global Agenda Council on Illicit Trade. He has served as special assistant to Ambassador Richard Holbrooke and as research associate for U.S. Foreign Policy at the Council on Foreign Relations. Skinner was on staff with the Schuster Institute as a senior fellow between 2009 and 2013. He is currently a senior vice president at Tau Investment Management, which he co-founded.