Sex Work Laws in Canada: Toward a Rights-Based Law Reform

“This panel will discuss the impact of Canada’s sex work laws on sex workers and gender equality. Currently, Canada’s sex work laws criminalize many aspects of the sex industry, including the sale of sexual services and third party involvement (i.e., materially benefitting from someone doing sex work).

The panelists will discuss the impact of Canada’s sex work laws on sex workers’ safety and human rights, and why law reform centered on evidence and human rights is needed. Panelists will also discuss how sex workers have long been advocating for their rights, and how civil society and gender equality organizations like LEAF can provide solidarity and support to sex workers’ movements.”

Panelists:

• Elene Lam • Butterfly (Asian and Migrant Sex Workers Support Network)
• Jenn Clamen • Canadian Alliance for Sex Work Law Reform
• Monica Forrester • Maggie’s Toronto Sex Workers Action Project
• Pam Hrick • Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund (LEAF)

Moderated by Rosel Kim (LEAF)