International Sex Workers’ Day

June 2 gives us an event with a touch of piquancy; this is International Sex Workers Day. It was created to raise awareness about those providing services of an intimate nature. It attracts attention to the issues of people’s attitudes toward those working in this field. They face brutality, humiliation, and illegal actions by the police, authorities, and clients.

History

The trigger for creating this holiday took place in 1975, in Lyon. Sex workers protested to inform the public and authorities about their terrible working conditions and unfair exploitation. French law enforcement officers acted aggressively against sex workers. This led to the formation of secret underground organizations and a shadow business. Sex workers who lost protection were abused. The protests changed the situation of the participants for the better. This holiday was first held in 1976.

Interesting Facts

In Spain, this day is called the Day of Sexual Exploitation, in Germany — Hurentag, and in the English-speaking world — Whore’s Day.

1. International Sex Workers Day has had bloody episodes in retrospect.
2. The Lyon sex worker strike lasted 8 days. The police were powerless to stop them.
3. Rising social tension in France in the 70s was facilitated by the absolute inaction and indifference of the government.

French police officers during the conflict acted against pimps and drug dealers, collaborated with sex companies, and identified cases of sexual abuse of minors. The police’s actions were aimed at combating crime related to the activities of prostitutes, as prostitution itself was legal.

How to Take Part

Raise awareness, and read the documents freely available on the main reasons for the appearance of this day dedicated to the protection of people engaged in the intimate industry. Get rid of stereotypical attitudes towards sex workers.

In 2011, a reading of Women without Rooms took place in the German city of Bochum. It revealed that the difficult situation in Europe relating to sexual services has not improved qualitatively. Signs of deterioration in terms of working conditions and attitudes toward people are manifested.

When is International Sex Workers’ Day in 2024?

International Sex Workers’ Day is observed on June 2 each year.

Observations