D17 2025

Editors Note: mentions of violence against sex workers

December 17th is the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. Organised by SWOP USA and Dr Annie Sprinkle, it began in 2003 as a day of remembrance for the victims of the Green River Killer, who were mostly sex workers. 

D17 has since evolved into a day to remember, and a day to fight for sex worker rights, recognition, and respect. To come together as a community, both workers and their allies, to demand decriminalisation and an end to discrimination. 

It is also a day to mourn and raise awareness for those of us lost to violence, both physical and state sanctioned. 

Annie Sprinkle said in a public letter: “Violent crimes against sex workers go underreported, unaddressed and unpunished. There really are people who don't care when prostitutes are victims of hate crimes, beaten, raped, and murdered. No matter what you think about sex workers and the politics surrounding them, sex workers are a part of our neighbourhoods, communities and families.”

Sex workers are everywhere, and we deserve safety and justice, just like any other community. 

Take a look at these articles from the past year at the Tryst blog on not just the stigma, discrimination, bad laws, and social structures that cause harm to sex workers worldwide, but also the hope that things can change, and the inspiring workers who have fought so hard to change them.

Are you a sex worker with a story, opinion, news, or tips to share? We'd love to hear from you!

We started the tryst.link sex worker blog to help amplify those who aren't handed the mic and bring attention to the issues ya'll care about the most. Got a tale to tell? 👇☂️✨