Sex Work: A Rights Based Approach

Shift’s mission statement asserts that along with a harm reduction framework, Shift uses a rights based approach to the programs and services provided. Basic human rights of individuals involved in sex work are the core foundation of the Shift program. Shift recognizes the rights of sex workers as individuals and as workers. As a result, Shift advocates on behalf of individuals working in sex work based on basic human rights for themselves and their families: appropriate health care, housing, safety & security, equal protection under the law, and improved working condition.
Sex workers have the same human rights as all people, including the right to safety while working. No one ever deserves to experience violence or assault. Suggestion that violence, abuse or assault is part of the job is blaming the victims of these crimes and implying that it is acceptable under those circumstances. The current prostitution laws also put people involved in sex work at greater risk for violence by forcing sex workers to work in unsafe working conditions, criminalizing sex workers and creating barriers to reporting violence due to fear of prosecution. See AIDS Calgary’s position statement in support of decriminalization of sex work for more information at http://www.shiftcalgary.org/Past_Events.html
Sex workers also have a right to self-determination. The right to self-determination means that workers are treated and respected as capable, competent individuals who are able to make their own decisions. First, this means that workers have the right to do what they wish with their bodies, including sex work. Service providers, law enforcement and the community do not have the ability to take that right away. Secondly, sex workers have the right to name their own needs. Those involved in sex work often report that when they share with service providers that they are sex workers, service providers will focus on the sex work and not the actual need the worker has requested to address. This often occurs when service providers insist that sex workers are victims and should be “saved” from their work, insisting that they need to exit the industry. Sex workers should be able to direct their own course of action and not have outside people establish goals for them.
Sex workers also have a right to live free from discrimination and stigma. Sex workers are one of the most marginalized populations due to society’s fear, lack of knowledge and understanding around sex work. Many people view sex workers as criminals, or people who are committing indecent or immoral acts. The media and pop culture often make derogatory statements about sex workers or portray workers in a negative light. This kind of stigma leads to discrimination, thus further isolating sex workers from society, decreasing their access to basic rights of health care, services and community connections.
Sex Workers refuse to accept the discrimination and rights violations that occur against them. Shift stands with sex workers against the fight, advocating and supporting those involved in sex work.