Photo credit: Diana Rotten
On Wednesday, 10 September, Scotland for Decrim held an event in Scottish Parliament to bring together members of our collective, allies, politicians and others to hear about why sex workers are calling for the full decriminalisation of sex work in Scotland.
The event was sponsored by Maggie Chapman MSP, an incredible intersectional feminist and ally.
The panel began with a speech by Maggie, followed by Laura Baillie, Scotland for Decrim’s Political Officer, who introduced SfD and the current political context. Then we heard from a member from the Street Workers Collective Ireland about the harms of the Nordic Model in Ireland. After their testimony, Lynsey, CEO of National Ugly Mugs, spoke about NUM’s work and perspective. Following Lynsey was Ruth, a member of PCS Scotland and SfD, who explained why trade unions support sex workers’ rights. Then Victoria, a Scottish sex worker, spoke about her experiences of being criminalised under current laws. Last but not least was Megan from Decrim Now, who spoke about Decrim Now’s work and the harms of criminalisation.
We finished the event with a Q&A, which felt informative, productive and uplifting. Members of the public asked important questions and our panelists answered them with passion, humour and hard facts. And then we had cake!
More photos on our Instagram.