International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers

International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers encourages people to fight against the cruelty often experienced by sex workers. The problem has been relevant for many years and has not been eradicated. Join the movement to fight discrimination!

History

The holiday was founded by the Sex Workers’ Rights Advocacy Network (SWAN). The organization has a simple mission: to abolish the unjust penal system, stop the violence, and reduce the risks faced by workers to zero. They were the first to raise this topic on a global scale and promote it every year. This includes clients receiving services, the police, pimps, and anyone else who comes into contact with the profession.

The main symbol of the movement is a red umbrella. It appeared for the first time in 2001 at the Congress of Sex Workers in Venice and became an indestructible symbol of the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. In 2005, the iconic accessory was accepted by the International Committee on the Rights of Prostitutes in Europe.

In the same year, the idea of a march using bright umbrellas appeared – not only sex workers but also concerned citizens took part in it. The event takes place not only in America but also in other countries. Every year there are more and more participants, and security is gradually increasing.

Interesting facts

• In 1230, a special street appeared in London where you could find a girl for one night.
• The profession is mentioned numerous times in ancient historical sources.
• Today, a person has the right to choose their job; previously, many girls were forced into the sex industry against their will. This was especially evident 200 years ago when society was patriarchal.

How to take part

If a similar march takes place in your city, participate in it! In the absence of mass events, take a red umbrella and go for a walk alone. Support the movement on social media – violence must not flourish!

When is International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers in 2024?

International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers is observed on December 17 each year.

Observations