Decals point sex workers to safe spaces

Red umbrella symbols part of new training program in Waterloo Region that aims to combat stigma

WATERLOO REGION — Local sex workers will be able to find safe spaces in Waterloo Region by looking for a red umbrella decal.

The decals are part of a new training program by the Sex Workers’ Action Network of Waterloo Region (SWAN) that aims to combat the stigma around sex work to allow workers to get the services they need.

“To have this program indicates to sex workers that Waterloo Region is trying to be a safe and welcoming space for everyone,” said Amy Venner, co-chair of SWAN.

To be eligible for the decals, staff at an agency will need to go through training being developed by the network in consultation with a person who has lived experience.

“It will involve things like dealing with your own preconceptions,” said Venner, women’s community development co-ordinator for the AIDS Committee Of Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo and Area.

People will learn about the diversity of sex workers and “focusing on the person, not what they do.”

Ensuring confidentiality and acknowledging their experience are also important.

All too often, people aren’t sure how to react because they’re unprepared.

“As soon as a person says they’re a sex worker, a lot of times people go into saving mode,” Venner said. “It’s just not an effective way to respond.”

Sex workers face numerous systemic issues, she said, and it’s far more complex than simply leaving. Suggesting they get out puts up barriers instead. “It alienates them,” Venner said. The goal of the training is that people treat sex workers the same as anybody else.

Agencies that go through the training need to sign a declaration before they can post the red umbrella decals, “recognizing the people who do sex work have the same rights as any individual.”

SWAN wants to offer the training to agencies that already support sex workers, including health and social service agencies, but it will be free and available to anyone interested. It hopes to start the program in the spring.