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International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers

redeyedtreefrog1 Comment

The International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers is observed annually on December 17th by sex workers, their advocates, friends, families and allies.

First celebrated in 2003 the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers is the brainchild of Dr. Annie Sprinkle and the Sex Workers Outreach Project USA (SWOP-USA)[2], an American Sex Worker’s Rights organization.

Originally conceived as a memorial and vigil for the victims of the Green River Killer in Seattle Washington, it has evolved into an annual international event.

The day calls attention to hate crimes committed against sex workers all over the globe as well as the need to remove the stigma and discrimination that is perpetuated by custom and prohibitionist laws that has made violence against sex-workers acceptable.

The red umbrella has become an important symbol for Sex Workers Rights and it is increasingly being used on December 17: “First adopted by Venetian sex workers for an anti-violence march in 2002, red umbrellas have come to symbolize resistance against discrimination for sex workers worldwide.”

In Toronto, Canada there will be a ‘speak out’ at Maggie’s: The Toronto’ Sex Worker’s Action Project
to mark the 7th International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers.

When: Thursday December 17th
Time: 7pm to 9pm
Where: Innis Town Hall, 2 Sussex Avenue
Opening remarks and Aboriginal Elder teachings will precede the speakout. This will be a facilitated speakout to ensure the safety and dignity of sex workers.

This is a sex worker positive event.

What’s going on in your community to mark the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers?umbrella

One thought on “International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers”

  1. Sad commentary on the apathetic response of the public and the Ontario government. On a day like today, Maggie’s doesn’t even have a working website.
    Hi to Tarn, Anastasia and Della, Lady Fontaine, Fred(Angela), Sabrina F, Honeybox, Kitty Litter and Candice. I hope you’ll all be among the living and not the dead we remember today.

    I’ll take a break from exam cramming to light a candle.

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