International Sex Workers Rights Day

[adannyboy]

March 3rd as Sex Worker Rights Day originated in India in 2001 as a festival organized by the sex worker rights organization Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee. The Festival, attended by 25,000 sex workers was held despite efforts from prohibitionist groups who were pressuring the government to revoke their permit. To commemorate this victory over those who criminalize and marginalize sex workers, DMSC proposed it as an annual, international event the following year:

 

"We felt strongly that that we should have a day what need to be observed by the sex workers community globally. Keeping in view the large mobilization of all types of global sexworkers (Female, Male, Transgender), we proposed to observe 3rd March as THE SEX WORKERS RIGHTS DAY. Knowing the usual response of international bodies and views of academicians and intellectuals of the 1st world (many of them consider that sex workers of third world are different from 1st world and can’t take their decision) a call coming from a third world country would be more appropriate at this juncture, we believe. It will be a great pleasure to us if all of you observe the day in your own countries too…We need your inspiration and support to turn our dreams into reality."

 

Ultimately, March 3rd provides an opportunity to shine a spotlight on sex worker activism, resilience, community and strength, and away from salaciousness, violations and paternalism.

 

Global Sex Worker Rights goals:

• Stop police harassment and violence against sex workers, including robbery and rape
  
• Ensure sex workers have safe, fair working conditions
  
• Eliminate barriers to accessing healthcare, housing, mainstream employment, and financial services.
  
• End stigma and discrimination.
  
• Identify and assist victims of sex trafficking and reduce vulnerabilities to trafficking.
  
• Increase economic, racial and gender equality to address economic compulsion.
  
• Stop harmful brothel raids, sting operations, and crackdowns on sex worker communities online and outdoors. Decriminalize sex work.