Sex Workers Outreach Project New York City [SWOP-NYC] and Sex Workers Action New yorK are both grassroots organization and part of a national network dedicated to improving the lives of current and former sex workers/those with experience in the sex trade in the New York metro area, on and off of the job.
- SWOP-NYC
The Sex Worker’s Outreach Project NYC (SWOP-NYC) is the New York City chapter of the Sex Workers Outreach Project. SWOP-NYC has open meetings once a month for current/transitioning/former workers and allies to discuss on-going projects, upcoming events, and expand our advocacy work. SWOP-NYC projects include working on policy campaigns, providing direct support to SWANK, event organizing, and other initiatives. If you would like to attend meetings, click here.
- SWANK
Sex Workers Action New yorK (SWANK) is a community group open to current and former sex workers & those who have experience in the sex trade whether by choice, circumstance, or coercion.
SWANK meetings occur once a month. SWANK provides community, peer support, court support, mutual aid, referrals, and activism for sex workers. The nature of each meeting differs depend on who is attending and what they desire/need. The attendees/members really shape SWANK so we encourage you to come and be a part of the community. If you would like to attend meetings, click here.
- SWOP-NYC and SWANK Points of Unity
Accepted December, 2011: - We join the fight to end trafficking in persons within the sex trade. We value the distinction between sex workers and those that have experienced trafficking and acknowledge overlapping experience.
- We acknowledge that participation in the sex trade is a highly individualized experience, we are experts in our own experiences and support everyone’s right to define their own.
- We acknowledge the rich legacies of sex work across cultures and times. We also see and acknowledge the active erasure and silencing of these stories.
- We are committed to addressing the legal issues of sex work with the intent to empower workers.
- We stand in solidarity with groups that are fighting oppressions, including, but not limited to, homophobia, racism, sexism, transphobia, misogyny, classism, and xenophobia.
- We utilize harm reduction principles, human rights principles, inclusivity, anti‐oppression and pro‐justice frameworks, and self and community accountability.
- SWOP-NYC/SWANK Creates and supports a safe and protected space for current and former sex workers and allies.
- A Shared Vision: SWOP-NYC and SWANK
Some our goals include (from our founding mandate in 2007):- Community-building activities like support groups, dinners, and get-togethers
- Forming alliances with like-minded groups and individuals
- Authoring zines and resource guides
- Eventually establishing a by- and-for-sex-worker health clinic, education center, and safe space
- Reaching out to the community at large by promoting openness and awareness through the arts and presentations to conferences, organizations and more.
More information: Meeting times, listserv, and other FAQs
