(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C. – Dec 17, 2022) On International Day to End Violence against Sex Workers Capacity supports the leadership of sex workers worldwide in calling attention to the violence and hate crimes perpetrated against sex workers. We remember and mourn the lives lost to this violence and hate, and we recognize that deep-seated intolerance, apathy, and forms of discrimination contribute to the ongoing oppression and stigmatization of sex workers.
International Day to End Violence against Sex Workers, also known as Red Umbrella Day, is an annual reminder to stand in solidarity with those committed to defending and advancing the human rights of all sex workers. Capacity recognizes that fighting to end violence against sex workers also means fighting transphobia, racism, xenophobia, and other forms of discrimination that leave trans and non-binary individuals, Indigenous people, racialized people, newcomers, and those with disabilities especially vulnerable within a criminalized economy. In order to prevent and address violence against sex workers, we must address the punitive criminal laws and social stigma attached to sex work, AND actively take our leadership from sex workers routinely excluded from public discussions on sexualized and gender-based violence.
Working on our national research study, Scaling Up Trauma and Violence-Informed Outreach with Women Affected by Violence, we know all too well the structural barriers and conditions that may prevent someone from reporting violence and seeking out the supports and services they need. We know solutions are found in the resilience and strength of the community, and we express our utmost gratitude to service providers and organizations, like PACE Society and the WISH Drop-In Centre Society, who are dedicated to providing employment, health, educational, and harm-reduction supports for sex workers.