Today is International Day to End Violence against Sex Workers. It was created by Dr. Annie Sprinkle in 2003 as a day to raise awareness of the violence in sex work and to highlight the discrimination that sex workers face. The day is observed globally on December 17th. Events include forums, marches, vigils and memorials.
The red umbrella was first used by sex workers in Venice, Italy in 2001. Slovenian artist Tadej Pogacar collaborated with sex workers to create the "Prostitute Pavillion" and CODE: RED art installation. On the occasion of the 49th Venice Biennale of Art in 2001 they walked the streets together out and proud in a Red Umbrellas March. The red is a colour of beauty and the umbrella protects from the elements. It symbolizes protection and strength.
In Calgary, sex trade workers face the reality of violence everyday. They may be degraded, taunted, have objects thrown at them, and be physically and sexually assaulted. These are all crimes committed against them, as persons. Yet some members of society seem to accept this behaviour towards them by saying, “it serves them right”, or “they set themselves up because of what they do”.
What sex workers do, in a number of venues; from the stroll to nightclubs, massage parlours and through escort agencies, is earn a living to support themselves and their families.
They are our mothers, sisters / brothers, daughters / sons and friends. They are Calgarians, and because they must hide from the stigma imposed upon them, they are isolated and vulnerable to the perpetrators of violence.
At shift, we hear their stories; provide them with support & guidance, and the tools of the trade that could help keep them safe while working; and provide them with the supports and services they need to leave the trade if they choose.
shift services are non-judgmental and as individual as the sex workers we assist.
By utilizing a harm-reduction approach we are able to facilitate in building on the strengths of these brave people.
On this day please remember the people involved in the sex trade that we have lost and risk being lost. Please help us to support the people in the sex trade that risk danger everyday, by considering your values and perceptions and perhaps making a shift yourself.
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