Pimp defined:
1. Noun: A person, typically a male, who manages or controls prostitutes and other persons (including those in trusted positions) specifically to profit from their earnings.
2. Verb: To act as a pimp, usually by procuring clients for prostitutes and controlling their activities in exchange for a portion of their earnings.
3. Slang: Pimp can be used to refer derogatorily to a person who exploits or takes advantage of others, often in a controlling or manipulative manner.
BUT
4. Slang: In a positive sense, pimp can be used to describe someone fashionable, stylish, or assertive.
Pop Culture
Though the Pimp culture has gotten great public relations elevation from film, fashion, entertainers, and music, may we never forget that Pimps play a huge role in human trafficking and the exploitation of the most vulnerable in each community.
It is important to note that pop culture representations do not necessarily reflect the reality of most pimps or their relationships with persons engaged in sex-for-hire activities.
Today, the pimping industry continues to exist, with various forms and degrees of organization and control.
Meanwhile prostitutes, escorts, and sex workers-mostly women- continue to be vilified, silenced, and further violated. As for the victimized children, well, we still struggle to get journalists to stop calling rape of minors who can't legally consent to anything "sex gone wrong."
As always, may we keep listening to the most marginalized and victimized voices.
Upon Reflection
Why do you think that pimps have been glamourized by entertainment media?
Who benefits from this glamourization?
Who, if anyone, pays the price?
Do you think this glamourized depiction leads to more or less silencing people engaged in these activities?
Why do you think people find pimps in films 'funny'? How do people respond to prostitutes or sex workers? Are they typically depicted as 'funny'?
"I'm the pimp, and you're the ho(e)."
What does this statement mean to you?
