Stances
Our thinking and advocacy priorities are always in flux, but here’s a few issues important to our group.
Decrim
SWOP Pittsburgh supports the full decriminalization of sex work and opposes sex trafficking and all forms of sexual violence. Because is a long way away in Pennsylvania, we focus on harm reduction policy changes.
worker safety
Back in 2018, SWOP was founded in part to fight the criminalization of condoms. Condoms were used as evidence during prostitution-related arrests. Discouraging condoms is a public health disaster.
Anti-surveillance
Sex workers are generally at a higher risk of stalking, domestic violence, and police surveillance. All of us deserve the safety that comes with digital privacy. We oppose technologies that target workers.
we Welcome migrants
Migrant and street workers are particularly at risk for sex trafficking and arrest. Fear of deportation and lack of community can prevent workers from seeking help.
Statements
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We’re proud to announce that SWOP Pittsburgh is a member of the For Safer Sex Work Coalition, an advocacy group fighting to change local city laws regarding sex work. The coalition is working to pass a city ordinance that reduces the punishment for prostitution from a misdemeanor to a summary violation. Sign on to the…
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We just released a guide to Pittsburgh-area services that local sex workers have vouched are supportive to our community. From doctors to lawyers to massage, it’s in there. We don’t generally include for-profit businesses unless they provide health, legal, or administrative services.
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In June 2021, on International Whores Day, SWOP Pittsburgh and a coalition of allies sent the following letter to political officials: June 2, 2021 To: Rep. Ed Gainey, District Attorney Stephen A. Zappala, Jr., and all candidates for Magisterial District Judge:The following letter is a list of considerations and demands written by members and affiliates…
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Date: 6/15/2018 Hon. Stephen A. Zappala, Jr. Allegheny County District Attorney Courthouse, Room 303 436 Grant Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Dear District Attorney Zappala, On behalf of the undersigned organizations we urge you to take immediate steps to end policies that endanger and undermine the health of Pittsburghers: 1.) police and prosecutors’ practice of citing…
Advocacy Updates
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We’re proud to announce that SWOP Pittsburgh is a member of the For Safer Sex Work Coalition, an advocacy group fighting to change local city laws regarding sex work. The coalition is working to pass a city ordinance that reduces the punishment for prostitution from a misdemeanor to a summary violation. Sign on to the…
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In June 2021, on International Whores Day, SWOP Pittsburgh and a coalition of allies sent the following letter to political officials: June 2, 2021 To: Rep. Ed Gainey, District Attorney Stephen A. Zappala, Jr., and all candidates for Magisterial District Judge:The following letter is a list of considerations and demands written by members and affiliates…
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The East Coast Asian American Student Union and the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance PGH hosted the Pittsburgh Rally for Solidarity, Wednesday afternoon in Schenley park. The rally brought together individuals and organizations from all backgrounds as a way to show support for the AAPI community after last week’s shooting in Atlanta. The event showcased…
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SWOON Alliance 