Sex Work is Real Work: Why Decriminalization Protects Every Body

Abstract

Sex work has a long and tumultuous history in the United States. Despite societal opposition and legislation expressly prohibiting sex work, it still remains a thriving industry despite its legal status. However, new legislation has made it difficult for sex workers to not only make a living, but also to protect themselves against abuse from clients or even law enforcement officers. The sex work industry is complex and largely intersectional, expanding to include issues such as human rights, workers’ rights, criminal justice reform, public health, race relations, class, sex, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Moreover, the effect of sex work within the LGBTQ+ community presents its own unique set of obstacles. This Comment explores the history of sex work in the United States and examines the currently enacted legislation that affects the day-to-day life of a sex worker. This Comment also expresses how sex work disproportionately affects members of the LGBTQ+ community, how another country regulates sex work in their country, and how decriminalization is the only solution to ensuring the protection of every body involved.