International Whores' Day

Étienne Jeaurat 001

Sex worker statue Oudekerksplein Amsterdam

International Whores' Day (IWD), also known as International Sex Workers' Day, is an annual event observed on June 2nd. It is a day dedicated to recognizing the rights and contributions of sex workers around the world. The day aims to raise awareness about the issues and challenges that sex workers face, including stigma, discrimination, and legal barriers, and to advocate for their rights, safety, and dignity.

History

International Whores' Day commemorates the occupation of Église Saint-Nizier in Lyon, France, by more than a hundred sex workers on June 2, 1975. The protest was in response to the harsh working conditions, discrimination, and police brutality that sex workers were subjected to. The occupation was a pivotal moment in the sex worker rights movement, highlighting the need for legal reforms and the recognition of sex workers' rights. It sparked similar actions and awareness across the globe, leading to the establishment of June 2nd as International Whores' Day.

Significance

The day serves as a platform for sex workers and their allies to engage in actions that promote their rights and well-being. It is marked by various events, including marches, workshops, and public speeches, aimed at destigmatizing sex work and advocating for policy changes. International Whores' Day also emphasizes the importance of consent, sexual health, and safety in the sex industry, advocating for decriminalization and better working conditions for sex workers.

Global Observance

International Whores' Day is observed worldwide, with events taking place in numerous countries. These events are organized by sex worker advocacy groups, human rights organizations, and feminist collectives. They provide a space for sex workers to share their experiences, challenges, and successes, and to connect with allies in the fight for their rights.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite its significance, International Whores' Day faces challenges and controversies. The stigma surrounding sex work and the criminalization of the industry in many countries make it difficult for sex workers to participate openly in the day's events. There is also debate within feminist and human rights circles about the best approaches to sex work and the rights of sex workers, with differing opinions on decriminalization, legalization, and abolition.

Future Directions

The observance of International Whores' Day continues to evolve, with a growing focus on inclusivity and the intersectionality of sex workers' rights. This includes recognizing the diverse experiences of sex workers based on race, gender identity, sexuality, and socioeconomic status. There is an ongoing effort to build solidarity across movements and to push for comprehensive legal and social reforms that support the rights and well-being of all sex workers.