Bulletin
December 17: International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers
December 17, 2025
To: All MoveUP members
Today, our union recognizes the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, a day to honour the lives lost to violence and to stand in solidarity with sex workers who continue to face disproportionate harm, stigma, and exclusion.
Violence against any worker is unacceptable. Sex workers, who are workers, often experience violence due to unsafe working conditions, criminalization, discrimination, and lack of legal protections. These realities contradict the fundamental union values of safety, dignity, and respect on the job.
As a labour movement, we believe that every worker deserves:
- Freedom from violence and harassment
- Access to health care, legal protections, and support services
- The right to dignity, safety, and self-determination
- A voice in decisions that affect their lives and livelihoods.
We also recognize and support the organizations, advocates, and worker-led groups that provide critical services, harm reduction, legal advocacy, and community support for sex workers. Their work saves lives and strengthens communities by standing up for those most often pushed to the margins.
We proudly acknowledge and support Living in Community, along with other worker-led and community organizations, for their vital work providing safety, advocacy, and support so people can live and work safely within their communities. If you would like more information please visit https://livingincommunity.ca/ Living in Community also offers training modules https://livingincommunity.ca/our-courses/training-and-education/
Ending violence against sex workers is part of the broader fight for worker justice and human rights. Our union remains committed to building a labour movement that leaves no worker behind.
In solidarity
Rysa Kronebusch
Chair, Health and Safety Committee