Press Release

Throughout the world, today is being observed as International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. For the Caribbean Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC), the day is especially pertinent because Sex Workers (SWs) throughout the region form one of our major constituents. Consequently, CVC wants to add its voice to the call for an end to violence to this and all other communities.

Repeatedly, CVC has received reports from SWs about the levels of violence meted out to them in their line of work. This comes at them sometimes from the Police, from citizens, and even from their clients. In many instances because of the illegality of their profession, SWs are intimidated to make reports or appeal for any kind of justice. As a direct consequence, these acts continue unabated.

CVC is concerned that this exposure to violence heightens the risk of and exposure to HIV and other life threatening diseases. This in and by itself will continue to contribute to the HIV infection rates among this and other populations.

Members of the sex work community detail the levels of violence in their countries (l-r Trinidad, Suriname and the Dominican Republic)

CVC is mindful of the fact that whereas the community of sex workers is made up of both men and women who sell either to members of the opposite sex or members of the same sex, the majority of SWs who are victims of violence are in fact women. That therefore brings attention to bear on the gender-based brand of violence which further fuels vulnerability.

CVC underscores the fact that violence against any persons is wrong and calls for an end to violence and end to violence against sex workers.