Livable Intersections: Re/Framing Sex Work at the Frontline

Sex workers face multiple forms of marginalization and are often blamed, victimized, and infantilized. Social support services are crucial in empowering them to manage their oppressive circumstances, but they are often entangled with the social, cultural, and political processes that disavow sex work. Livable Intersections: Re/Framing Sex Work at the Frontline investigates the dynamics of frontline policy practice and offers a new vision for designing, implementing, and valuing sex worker support services.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 180 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2019
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

For many sex workers, life is a complex and challenging journey that exists at the intersection of exclusion and assimilation. At this crossroads, they face a multitude of vulnerabilities and regulations that often leave them feeling isolated, blamed, victimized, and infantilized. Within the framework of heteronormativity, the experiences of sex workers are characterized by multiple and overlapping forms of marginalization.

Social support services are widely believed to play a vital role in mitigating the harsh realities of such an unlivable existence. These services aim to empower service users to navigate and overcome the oppressive circumstances they face. However, it is important to note that these services are often intertwined with the social, cultural, and political processes that perpetuate the denial of "sex" as a legitimate form of "work" and the subsequent marginalization of sex workers.

To better understand the dynamics of frontline policy practice and explore the possibilities for creating livable intersections, this research draws upon insights from Judith Butler and intersectionality. By re/framing sex work at the forefront, this study seeks to offer a fresh perspective on designing, implementing, and valuing support services for sex workers.

One of the key findings of this research is that the experiences of sex workers are deeply intertwined with broader social, economic, and political systems. Sex workers are often subjected to discrimination, violence, and social exclusion due to their work, which can have devastating consequences for their physical and mental well-being. Moreover, the criminalization of sex work further exacerbates their marginalization, as it criminalizes both sex workers and their clients, leading to increased policing, stigmatization, and social isolation.

In response to these challenges, it is essential to develop policies and practices that prioritize the rights and dignity of sex workers. This includes advocating for the decriminalization of sex work, the implementation of robust labor protections, and the provision of comprehensive support services that address the unique needs and experiences of sex workers.

Furthermore, intersectionality is crucial in understanding the experiences of sex workers. Sex workers are often marginalized not only due to their work but also due to their race, gender, sexuality, and other intersecting identities. Therefore, support services must be designed to address the diverse needs and experiences of sex workers, taking into account their multiple identities and the intersecting systems of oppression they face.

One example of a livable intersection is the development of community-based support services that are led and staffed by sex workers themselves. These services not only provide practical support, such as legal aid, health care, and housing, but also offer a sense of community and belonging for sex workers. By empowering sex workers to take control of their support services, these services can break down the barriers of isolation and marginalization and promote greater social inclusion.

Another example is the use of technology to create safe and accessible spaces for sex workers to engage in their work. Online platforms and mobile apps can provide sex workers with greater autonomy and control over their work, as well as access to a wider range of clients and resources. By leveraging technology, sex workers can reduce their risk of violence and exploitation and improve their economic security.

In conclusion, the lives of sex workers are complex and challenging, characterized by exclusion, assimilation, vulnerability, and regulation. Social support services are crucial in mitigating the harsh realities of such an existence, but they must be designed to address the diverse needs and experiences of sex workers and be aware of the broader social, cultural, and political systems that perpetuate their marginalization. By re/framing sex work at the forefront and promoting livable intersections, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786604484