International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers is annually observed across the globe on 17th December to focus attention on the hate crimes committed against sex workers across the globe.
- The day has empowered the workers to come together against discrimination and remember the victims of violence.
Symbol:
‘Red Umbrella’ is the symbol for sex workers’ rights across the globe.
In 2005 the International Committee on the Rights of Sex Workers in Europe adopted the red umbrella as its symbol for the rights of sex workers.
Background:
i.The International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers was started by the Sex Workers Outreach Project(SWOP) USA (United States of America), and inaugurated by Dr Annie Sprinkle on 17th December 2003, the date of Green River Killer (Gary Ridgeway’s) conviction.
ii.The first-ever International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers was held as a memorial and vigil for the victims of the Green River Killer in Seattle, Washington.
Global Network of Sex Work Projects(NSWP):
i.The Global Network of Sex Work Projects (NSWP) exists to uphold the voice of sex workers globally and connect regional networks advocating for the rights of female, male, and transgender sex workers.
ii.Works of NSWP are focused on
- Acceptance of sex work as work.
- Opposition to all forms of criminalisation and other legal oppression of sex work (including sex workers, clients, third parties, families, partners and friends).
- Supporting self-organisation and self-determination of sex workers.
