FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Dec 17th: International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers Vigil and March

Sacramento, CA – December 6, 2014 – The Sex Workers Outreach Project Sacramento Branch is hosting their first annual International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers Vigil and March.

In the spirit of remembrance and healing, the Sex Workers Outreach Project joins sex workers, allies and advocates from around the world in recognizing December 17, the International Day to End Violence against Sex Workers.

In the daytime, SWOP Sacramento will be feeding and distributing backpacks filled with toiletries, socks, ponchos, and blankets to the now increasingly homeless population of street sex workers on Stockton Blvd.

Kristen DiAngelo stated “The basic needs of these people aren’t being met. Shelters are full and even 24 hour hotlines are not picking up the phone. It is up to us to fix this. Our system is broken when it convicts those who hungry and homeless”.

Stacey Swimme stated “Poverty is a form of violence that affects women of color and their children the most. Incarceration compounds the violence faced by people surviving in the street economy. It’s time to focus on eradicating poverty and racism, not prohibiting prostitution.”

The Sex Workers Outreach Project Sacramento (SWOP Sac), is hosting Sacramento’s first annual Dec 17th march and vigil. Attendees are welcome to wear a red t-shirt or carry a red umbrella in solidarity.

4:45 pm – meet at West Steps of the California State Capital

5:00 pm – vigil will begin with a remembrance ceremony and then march

6:00 pm – Refreshments and networking at the LGBT Community Center 1927 L St, Sacramento, CA 95811

Candles will be provided (but are limited, so please bring your own if you can)

Come out, march, light a candle, tell a story, sing a song or just quietly observe the moment. We invite you to join with sex workers around the globe to stand against the criminalization and violence committed against our communities. Together we can create a more peaceful world. For more information 866-866-3636

Contact:

Kristen DiAngelo

inquiries@sacramentoswop.org

2386 Fair Oaks Blvd, Suite 360

Sacramento, CA USA