In the last four weeks, many have been wondering what has driven people to Occupy Wall Street (OWS) and bring attention to the economic situation that has developed in our country. Critics have argued that so many issues are being discussed and that so many disparate groups have joined forces, that the occupation has no cohesive message, purpose, or goals. As our group of sex workers and allies stood in solidarity with our fellow revolutionaries Wednesday, October 5th at the rally at Foley Square in New York, it was apparent that we were included in that critique or question. What were we doing there? What was our purpose? What was our message? And how do sex workers’ rights connect to the larger OWS movement?
The following information is submitted by the Best Practices Policy Project (BPPP) and the Desiree Alliance. Both organizations were founded in 2005 to be part of a re-emerging movement for sex worker rights in the United States. Both groups prioritize sex worker leadership in issues of concern to them and strive to ensure social justice through anti-oppression/anti-racism work. The Desiree Alliance has worked since its inception to speak to the concerns of the wide range of people— including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities—who engage in sexual commerce (such as street sex work, escort work, informal sexual negotiations for basic income). The Best Practices Policy Project is dedicated to building excellence amongst organizations working with sex workers and related communities of people also affected by anti-prostitution policies (such as transgender people, youth, low income people of color and immigrants) so that collectively we can build a society in which these communities can enjoy their health and rights.