The 13th Amendment Exception: How Slavery Remains Legal in 2025 America with Tristan Matthew Chen (USA)

Send us Fan MailMost Americans don't realize that slavery remains legal in the United States, hidden in plain sight within the 13th Amendment's exception clause: "neither slavery nor involuntary servitude except as punishment for crime." This constitutional loophole enables the modern prison industrial complex to exploit incarcerated individuals for what amounts to free labor.In this eye-opening conversation, human rights activist Tristan Matthew Chen reveals how his journey began at Gettysburg College, where the historical significance of the Civil War battlefield sparked his interest in understanding America's unfinished business with slavery. What started as a student club evolved into TalkListenChange.net, a platform dedicated to ending modern slavery through education and advocacy. Chen explains how mandatory minimum sentencing and three-strikes laws have created a system where people serve life sentences for minor drug offenses—particularly affecting communities of color and those without financial resources for adequate legal representation.The economic motivations behind mass incarceration become clear as Chen connects the dots between private prisons, corporate exploitation of prison labor, and financial institutions that profit from this system. With Americans spending hundreds of billions on incarceration annually, he argues that treating drug issues as public health concerns rather than criminal matters would be both more humane and economically sensible. The conversation highlights how young activists between 16-30 have historically driven meaningful social change, positioning Chen's generation uniquely to challenge these entrenched systems.Ready to help end the last legally sanctioned form of slavery in America? Visit TalkListenChange.net to sign the petition advocating for constitutional change, learn more about these critical issues, and share this information with others. As Chen emphasizes, if not now, when? If not us, who?Music, lyrics, guitar and singing by Dr Ariel Rosita KingTeach me to live one day at a timewith courage love and a sense of pride.Giving me the ability to love and accept myselfso I can go and give it to someone else.Teach me to live one day at a time.....Support the showThe Business of LifeDr Ariella (Ariel) Rosita KingOriginal Song, "Teach Me to Live one Day At A Time"written, guitar and vocals by Dr. Ariel Rosita KingDr King Solutions (USA Office)1629 K St, NW #300, Washington, DC 20006, USA, +[email protected]