International Sex Workers’ Day

June 2, Monday

International Sex Workers’ Day, also known as International Whores’ Day, is observed annually on June 2. This holiday honors the rights and contributions of sex workers, recognizes their struggles for dignity and self-determination, and raises awareness about the abuses and discrimination they face globally.

History and Origins
The day traces its origins to June 2, 1975, in Lyon, France. Around 100 sex workers occupied the Church of Saint-Nizier to protest their mistreatment, police harassment, and dangerous working conditions. They wanted their voices to be recognized in the fight against stigma and violence. The protest lasted for eight days before it was forcibly ended by police raids.
- This occupation, known as the Saint-Nizier uprising, became a historic moment in the fight for sex workers’ rights.
- June 2 was later commemorated annually as International Sex Workers’ Day in honor of their bravery and activism.

Core Themes and Significance
- Raising Awareness:
The day sheds light on the dehumanization, criminalization, and exploitation faced by sex workers.
- Amplifying Voices:
It provides a platform for sex workers to organize, share their experiences, and push for social and legal reforms.
- Advocating for Rights:
The focus is on treating sex work as legitimate labor, ensuring workplace protections, and promoting health and safety.
- Ending Stigma:
The event challenges societal prejudices and highlights the importance of human rights for all, regardless of profession or gender identity.

Challenges and Current Relevance
Despite growing awareness, sex workers globally still face numerous issues:
- Violence, discrimination, and lack of legal protections.
- Criminalization of their work in many countries, which forces them into unsafe environments.
- Stigma that marginalizes them socially and economically.

International Sex Workers’ Day continues to be a vital platform for activists fighting for equality, human rights, and labor protections.

International Sex Workers’ Day is more than just a commemoration; it’s a call to action for society to support and respect the rights of sex workers everywhere. Observing this day is a step toward breaking down barriers of misunderstanding and building a world where everyone’s dignity and rights are upheld.

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International Sex Workers’ Day in other years

2021 June 2, Wednesday
2022 June 2, Thursday
2023 June 2, Friday
2024 June 2, Sunday
2026 June 2, Tuesday

International Sex Workers’ Day in other countries