- Recent News

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR CREATING A MORE SUCCESSFUL SEX WORK BUSINESS

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 15:44:00 -0500

Saturday February 23 | 10am-5pm | 298A Gerrard St.

One week your phone is ringing off the hook and dead the next. We often don’t know if we could be marketing ourselves better to attract more clients (and more of the kinds we like). At the same time, we can’t access mainstream career and skills training!

In this all day workshop, NYC-based consultant Donia will take you through how to improve the quality of your business, attract more clients and your dream clients.

* Developing your own personal brand
* Attracting more of the clients you want--and keeping them
* Writing more effective ads and marketing strategically
* Managing your finances
* Creating a safe work environment including a proven screening policy.
and more...

This workshop will be a fun and lively mix of presentations, interactive discussion, creative problem solving and exercises that will get you started instituting good practices that will yield immediate results.

FREE. Pre-registration required. Limited spaces available. Includes all course materials (and special gift) and a free 20-minute follow-up call with Donia

To insure the privacy and safety of all the participants, all attendees will be required to complete a simple screening. This class is open to current sex workers, of any genders. Currently the plan is to host this at Maggie's but if this would bar access (due to the steps or any other access need), please notify us and we will change venue.

For more information and to register please contact Maggie's at [email protected] and include a link to your most recent ad

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Upcoming Events

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 14:48:00 -0500

As we get into 2013, so much is coming up at Maggie's...

-Join us on Jan 29 to talk about what sex workers know about preventing sexual violence! Click here for event details.

-Join us on Feb 14 as we add our voices to those demanding a real, federal inquiry into the missing and murdered women. Click here for details.

-donate your sex worker gear to us! Also on Feb 14, we will be hosting a clothing party for sex workers at Sistering and we want your lingerie and shoes, makeup and more. Click here for details on donating.

State of Disrepair: Panel on State Violence Against Sex Workers

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 01:15:00 -0500

What are the connections between sex work and colonialism, child apprehension systems (eg CAS, residential schooling), anti-immigrant policies, policing and poverty? All contribute to or directly enact violence against sex workers.

Join Maggie’s on Dec 17: International Day To End Violence Against Sex Workers for a panel discussion about how sex workers experience state violence and how the fight for the decriminalization of prostitution connects to these broad issues.

Moderated by Jessica Danforth (Native Youth Sexual Health Network) featuring the premiere of the short film “Remember The Living: Monica Forrester on Sisters in Spirit And Indigenous Sex Workers”

Featuring Spirit Wind Women's Hand Drum Group

When: Monday Dec 17

Where: 519 Community Centre (519 Church St)

Time: 7 pm

Free | wheelchair accessible | accessible and gender neutral washrooms | tokens available | no cameras or recording equipment please

Sponsored by Asian Community AIDS Services and Native Women's Resource Centre of Toronto

What Works For Sex Workers

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 17:33:00 -0500

Maggie's is very happy to be able to share this new report by Ottawa based POWER which offers service providers "An expanded toolkit of information strategies and tips for service providers working with sex workers". This is an excellent resource for agencies that serve sex workers but also for allies trying to understand the diversity of sex work and the realities of criminalization on different groups. Maggie's will have paper copies available soon and you can download the pdf here.

Supreme Court of Canada to Hear Ontario Sex Workers

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 14:22:00 -0400

This morning (October 25) the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that they will hear the appeal of the case of the three sex workers (Terri Jean Bedford et al) who are fighting three of the anti-prostitution laws in Ontario. This is especially important because it means that sex workers will again get the chance to fight to have the Communicating For The Purposes of Prostitution law struck down. We are thrilled about this as the Communicating law is responsible for the majority of prostitution arrests in Canada and has significant and violent impacts on the lives of street-based sex workers. To understand more about the decision, check out this piece by our friends at Pivot Legal. Also here is some history on the case and a link to the Supreme Court info Congrats to Terri Jean Bedford, Amy Lebovitch and Valerie Scott!

Join Maggie's at Sisters in Spirit Vigil and events

Sun, 16 Sep 2012 04:55:00 -0400

From the Native Women's Resource Centre of Toronto:

Native Women's Resource Centre of Toronto and the planning committee will once again be hosting Toronto’s "Sisters In Spirit Vigil" at Allan Gardens Park on October 4th from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
In addition, we’ll be hosting a Sunrise Ceremony at City Hall at 7:00 AM on October 4th.

Please come out to celebrate and remember the lives of our mothers, sisters, aunties, grandmothers and friends that have been taken from us too soon leaving behind a legacy of memories and loved ones.

For more Information Please Call: (416) 963-9963 or e-mail us at: [email protected]

Partnering Organizations Include:
-------------------------------
Aboriginal Students Association at York
Anishnawbe Health
Council Fire
Elizabeth Fry
Maggie's: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project
METRAC
Native Child and Family Services
Native Youth Sexual Health Network
No More Silence
OPSEU
PASAN
Sistering
Toronto Rape Crisis Centre/Multicultural Women Against Rape

Maggie's at Toronto Prisoners Justice Day 2012

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 15:12:00 -0400

August 10th is a day set aside to remember all the men and women who have died inside Canadian prisons. We want to raise awareness about the impact that the policing and incarceration has on sex workers. In many cities, being arrested on a prostitution offence is the most common route for women (including and especially trans women) to be first pulled into the revolving door of the criminal legal system and all of its violence and oppression. This year Maggie's Community Engagement coordinator Monica Forrester spoke about sex workers--in particular trans women sex workers--who are oppressed by policing and prisons. Later Drop-In Coordinator Phoenix Katt spoke about anti-trafficking legislation and it's impact on sex workers and their right to migrate. Check out Phoenix's speech here! For more info the Prisoners Justice Day click here.

March for Trans Sex Workers Rights!

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 11:01:00 -0400

March with Maggie's for Trans Sex Worker Rights!

For those who haven't yet heard, the Ontario Human Rights Code has just been expanded to include gender identity and gender expression! What perfect timing to announce that Maggie's Community Engagement coordinator (and long-time trans community activist) Monica Forrester will be speaking the annual Toronto Trans March. Join us on Friday June 29 to celebrate this victory and learn about how we can connect trans and sex worker justice! Click here for more information about the Trans March and Trans Pride events happening.

Tips on Client Screening for Escorts and BDSM Pros

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 13:52:00 -0400

Current escorts and BDSM professionals--How do you screen your potential clients to weed out the timewasters, jerks or worse? Come to a casual chat led by current workers about their methods for screening clients and share yours!

Tuesday May 8 | 6pm | free

Two members of Maggie's "Real Work Group" will talk about each of their screening methods in order to accept or decline potential clients. One of us uses various screening websites (verifyhim, preferred 411, provider buzz, etc) and collects personal information, she'll give a quick pro con and demo of these. The other mostly relies on intuition. Both of us work indoors and get clients through online advertising. Come share your screening tips with us!

No registration is required for this workshop but if you have never been to a Real Work Group, you must speak to a Maggie's staff person first before attending. Open to all current sex workers, of all genders, from all parts of the sex industry or sex trade. For questions, call 416-964-0150 or email [email protected]

April workshops

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:24:00 -0400

APRIL WORKSHOPS AT MAGGIE'S

Wednesdays 2-5 pm

Apr 11: HIV+ SEX WORKERS—WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RISKS OF ARREST FOR NOT DISCLOSING YOUR HIV STATUS

Apr 18: GRIEF AND LOSS: HOW TO COPE WITH LOSING YOUR KIDS TO CAS AND/OR BEING RAISED IN THE FOSTER SYSTEM

Membership is free and by drop-in. Open to all current and former sex workers in any part of the industry. All ages and all genders. We are trans-positive and welcoming. Food & TTC tokens available.

Maggie’s: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project

298A Gerrard St E 2^nd Fl | www.maggiestoronto.ca | 416-964-0150

Changes to sex work laws in Ontario--A Worker's Guide

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:15:00 -0400

UPDATES APRIL 26 2012

On Monday March 26, judges of the Ontario court of appeal gave a decision about laws affecting prostitution. They ruled that some laws had to stay and some had to go. Here is some info for you on what will change for your work.

1. “Communicating For The Purposes of Prostitution” is still illegal. So for example, if you connect with your potential clients on the streets/outdoors, that could still get you arrested. We expect police street sweeps to continue and you face all the same legal risks – take all the same legal protections that you always do to avoid law enforcement.

2. “Committing an Indecent Act” is still illegal. If you see your clients anywhere outdoors (park, alley) or in their car, you could still get busted. Again, nothing has changed so take the same precautions you normally do.

3. The law against “Living off the Avails of Prostitution” was modified and might be gone some day--but is still in place for now. The meaning of this law was changed so that you could legally hire people to help you run your business. E.g. a driver, a receptionist or someone to be your safe person while you see clients. It also means that your partner/spouse, roommates, children and other personal relationships will *probably* not be considered criminal anymore. We can only say "probably" because “Living Off the Avails” will still be considered illegal if these relationships are considered "exploitative"--but the judges didn't define "exploitation" so we don't really know what that means or how it will be interpreted. For now though the law is still in place and nothing has changed.

4. The law against “Operating a Common Bawdy House” was struck down and might be gone in one year (March 2013). This means that if you see your clients indoors, in your own home or a hotel, this may become legal in a year. And we may see legal brothels. But the changes won’t come into effect for at least a year and in the meantime, the judges demanded that the government come up with a new way to regulate sex workers who work inside (hotels, outcalls, their own home etc). For now though, unfortunately, nothing has changed and working out of your own home, working indoors with someone else or in any one place regularly is still illegal. The only legal way to work remains by doing outcalls or moving from hotel room to hotel room.

5. The next step is the Supreme Court of Canada! The sex workers in this case are continuing the fight to get the law against Communicating For The Purposes of Prostitution struck down so that street workers can work without fear of arrest. This process is slow so we won’t have a decision on that for a few years.

For more info or to join us in our fight to live and work with safety and dignity, contact Maggie’s: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project. Maggie’s is by and for current and former sex workers of all genders in any part of the sex industry or sex trade.

298A Gerrard Street East | www.maggiestoronto.ca | 416-964-0150

Night Fairies and Radical Hustlers: Maggie's Presents A night of sex work activist films

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 15:24:00 -0500

Sex workers past and present! Join Maggie's: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project and our special guest Carol-Leigh (aka Scarlot Harlot, inventor of the term "sex work") as we celebrate International Sex Worker Rights by showcasing the fierce activism of sex workers in an exciting night of film.

Wed March 21 | 7 pm | Free | wheelchair accessible | 17 Phoebe st (near Queen & Spadina) | PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A SPECIAL EVENT FOR CURRENT OR FORMER SEX WORKERS ONLY

Whether it's by taking to the streets in protest, delivering vital services to our fellow workers or simply reclaiming our stories and our lives, sex workers are transforming communities and having our voices heard.

-Red Lips [Cages for Black Girls], director Kyisha Williams in attendance

-Collateral Damage: Sex Workers and the Anti-Trafficking Campaign (USA) with director Carol Leigh (aka Scarlot Harlot) in attendance

-Tales of the Night Fairies (feature film)
In India, a motherland of sex worker activism where Int'l Sex Workers Rights Day originated, with our feature length showing of Tales of the Nightfairies. This film explores the power of collective organizing and resistance of 60,000 sex workers in Kolkata.

A Q+A discussion on sex work activism will complete our action-packed event.

Maggie's proudly acknowledges the assistance of SWOP-NYC, SWANK, the San Francisco Sex Worker Film and Arts Festival, Anna Saini and PJ Starr for assistance in curating this inspiring night of film.

Wheelchair accessible venue and washrooms

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS EVENT IS FOR PEOPLE OF ALL GENDERS WHO ARE CURRENTLY OR FORMERLY IN ANY PART OF THE SEX INDUSTRY. If you are not a current or former sex worker but would like to see these films, contact us and we'll connect you with the filmmakers

Happy Sex Workers Rights Day!

Sat, 03 Mar 2012 15:32:00 -0500

A Month A Month To Celebrate Sex Workers Rights!

In 2003, the sex workers union of West Bengal India--DMSC--created International Sex Workers Rights Day and sex workers around the world have been celebrating this day ever since. At Maggie's we are marking the day with a whole month of free activities dedicated to celebrating our communities and our work together both locally and internationally.

We'll be looking at sex workers rights in relation to the labour movement, to youth rights and--in honour of the work of DMSC, we'll be hosting a sex-workers-only screening of "Tales of The NIght Fairies", featuring our very special guest Carol-Leigh, the grand-dame of the sex workers rights movement in North America and the woman who coined the phrase "sex worker"!

March 4 | Sex Worker Solidarity Coffeehouse

Sunday March 4, 2012 | 2-4pm | Free | Beit Zatoun, 612 Markham Street

How can the movement towards expanding labour rights for all better support sex workers in their efforts to improve their working conditions and end criminalization? Click HERE for details

March 11 | Hu$tle & Dough: Youth, Labour and Sex

Join us for an exciting roundtable of youth sex work activists talking about youth who trade sex and celebrate the launch of the Labour issue of Shameless Magazine! Part of our month-long celebration of International Sex Workers Rights Day.

March 21| Sex Workers As Activists Film Screening

featuring Tales of the NIght Fairies and short films by Carol Leigh and local sex work activists! If all you know about sex work in India comes from Born Into Brothels (or you knew something wasn't right about that film) then come see the real story as told by 5 sex workers in Kolkata India! Tales of the Night Fairies explores the power of collective organizing and resistance while reflecting upon contemporary debates around sexwork. March 21 | Free | 17 Phoebe Street | More details forthcoming. Please note this event is open to any current or former sex worker only.

Indigenous People In The Sex Trade: Our Life, Our Bodies, Our Realities

On Feb 14, the Aboriginal Sex Worker Education and Outreach Project launched a powerful series (statement,press release and video) that outlining Indigenous sex workers rights to self-determination and solidarity. Click HERE and share them with your networks!

Rethinking Management in the Sex and Adult Industry

Do you have at least one year of experience working for someone else (i.e. a manager, an agent, boss, madam or ‘pimp’)? Is your experience as of the year 2000? Would you be able to talk about this experience in a 3 hr focus group with 6-8 other sex workers on the date indicated below. Your anonymity is assured and an honorarium will be provided. Click HERE for more details

Hu$tle & Dough: Youth, Labour and Sex

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 18:51:00 -0500

Join us for this exciting roundtable of youth sex work activists talking about youth who trade sex to mark the launch of the Labour issue of Shameless Magazine!

Sunday March 11| 3-5 pm | the 519 Community Centre, Room 106 | Free

Featuring:
Jessica Danforth (Yee)
Kyisha Williams
Phoenix Katt

Wheelchair accessible location and washrooms

Light refreshments

For more info, contact [email protected]

March 4 | Sex Worker Solidarity

Sun, 19 Feb 2012 20:37:00 -0500

a Greater Toronto Workers’ Assembly Coffeehouse

Sunday March 4, 2012, 2-4pm

Free

Beit Zatoun, 612 Markham Street (Bathurst Station)
The space is wheelchair accessible. Unfortunately, washrooms are not.

Panellists: Kathryn Payne, Keisha Scott, Phoenix Kat, Kyisha Williams and Victoria Love
Moderator: Emily van der Meulen

Sex workers in Toronto have been organizing for improved labour and social rights for over 30 years. And yet, we have witnessed an intensification of criminal law sanctions against sex workers' labour activities since the mid-1980s. Despite their ongoing efforts to change social views, sex-work continues to be seen by many as illegitimate, dangerous, exploitive, and valueless. Sex workers have identified criminalization, and its resulting stigma and discrimination, as central to the problems they face. Therefore, labour organizing for better protections is inseparable from the fight for decriminalization. This GTWA coffeehouse discussion will address how acting in solidarity with sex worker rights organizations, and supporting sex workers in their efforts to improve their working conditions and end criminalization, are important in the movement towards expanding labour rights for all.

Indigenous People In The Sex Trade: Our Life, Our Bodies, Our Realities (statement)

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:55:00 -0500

We as Aboriginal peoples who have current and/or former life experience in the sex trade and sex industries met on Mississauga’s of the New Credit Territory. In a talking circle organized by the Maggies’ Aboriginal Sex Workers Education and Outreach Project we came together to create a statement around Aboriginal Sex Work.

We acknowledge that as Aboriginal People in the sex trade, we are the family for a lot of different people. The love we give each other cannot be defined- we have a language of our own that includes our bodies. Two-Spirit people in our community specifically give an amount of love that can’t be defined or understood by many communities. We connected through this unity of realities and experiences. Many of us come from stories of foster care and residential schools and never had families to call our own before. We are very much connected and sex work has pulled us together to respect/connect over that part of our lives.
As part of the larger Aboriginal community we recognize that different groups make up and enrich our community (eg. Two-Spirit, Elders, Trans People, Youth, & Adults). Aboriginal Sex workers are one of the groups that make up and enrich the community. These identities are not limited, and Aboriginal sex workers often fit into several of these groups.
As a part of supporting Aboriginal People in sex work - remote and rural Aboriginal communities need to be educated about our work just as much as those in the city. It is important for our home communities to be just as educated as those in the city. Many of us are not able to go home to visit/stay because of the violence, stigma and lack of acceptance of our work. Sometimes this is also tied into our communities perceiving us as lacking culture of native identity. Our lives, our bodies, and our realities are culture.
Not all aspects of sex work are negative. It is harmful when the emphasis is put on drug use and mental health. While we see some parts of culture adapting to society, we also see certain elements of culture changing that do not support people in their choices. Aboriginal culture needs to adapt to include Aboriginal People in the sex trade where they are at, empowering them to make their own choices, and support harm reduction.
There are still large amounts of systemic oppression that Aboriginal sex workers face in their day to day lives. People need to understand the history of Aboriginal sex workers in order to move forward in the future. Much of the stigma towards Aboriginal sex workers is rooted around sex and history. Society’s ideas of sex work do not often take this into account. Colonization has shaped our community to think sex is shameful. We need to abolish colonization in order to move forward. Violence happens but it is part of a society. Because sex work is looked at as a negative profession it validates the violence. The root of this violence comes from colonization.
Part of (de) colonizing Aboriginal sex work for the larger Aboriginal community is to work through their own internalized oppressions. An example of this is not acknowledging people’s choices within our community. Our communities need to stop re-internalizing oppressions. Without community supports, we are still living through internalized colonization and genocide. Our creator has no bind on what people do, but guides us in the right direction.
There is no better time to work around decriminalization, but it is only a step towards (de)colonizing. This will push forward Aboriginal sex workers out of the darkness, oppressions, and bring more empowerment. It will bring more support to our choices of work and the lives we chose to lead. Aboriginal sex work is an act of self-determination and an act of empowerment- a valid act of supporting ones basic necessities of life. We are aware of the choices we make, and we are tired of people controlling our ideas, bodies and voices. Agencies, policy makers, and community can empower us with tools for our chosen work. The ‘we need saving process’ repeats a historical narrative of saving in the history of Aboriginal peoples. Feminism is playing out in a way that does not support our choices of self-determination over our bodies as Aboriginal Peoples.
ASWEOP brings the Aboriginal sex working community together to recognize the Aboriginal women who have gone missing or been murdered as a part of ongoing genocide and systemic oppression. It allows us to celebrate current Aboriginal and Two-Spirit sex workers while acknowledging those who have lost their lives due to ongoing colonial abuse. Projects like ASWEOP have allowed the community to be more resilient within their work, community and with each other.
The seeds have been planted for community, sex workers and community based agencies. Now it is time to grow together. We need our people to support us, fight for us, and back us up. We need to work together.

-press release

-Video of ASWEOP at Sisters in Spirit Vigil, 2011 (click here for subtitled version)

New to sex work?

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:39:00 -0500

New to sex work or considering starting escorting, pro-BDSM, phone sex, stripping or massage? Maggie's has just updated "Tips For Tricking About Town: A Guide For New Workers" featuring info about the law, advertising, health and safety and where sex workers can get a 10% discount on sex supplies! check it out here

2011 In review

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:56:00 -0500

It was a whirlwind year here at Maggie's: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project. We're looking back at all the ways we pushed forward our ability to live and work with safety and dignity individually and as a community. Here are a few of our highlights...we hope you'll continue to support our work in 2012!

-as a direct response to the exclusion Indigenous sex workers face (including from cultural ceremonies), members of the Aboriginal Sex Workers Education and Outreach Project hosted art-making, drum-making, writing and talking circles led by Aboriginal sex workers. In consultation with Elders, ASWEOP members created medicine bundles for Indigenous street workers containing sweet grass, sage, cedar, safer crack and injection kits.

-in March Maggie's hosted "What Works For Sex Workers", a day-long forum for decision-makers in the Violence Against Women sector on improving sex worker-inclusive policies and practices.

-also in March we hosted a free Sex Workers Soiree featuring films by sex workers in honour of International Sex Workers Rights Day

-The "RealWork Group" (a current-worker-only group hosted by Maggie's) continued to meet regularly to share skills and information between sex workers both in and outside of Maggie's

-in June we joined POWER of Ottawa to argue in favour of decriminalization of sex work in the Ontario Court of Appeal. (we will hearing the results of that sometime in 2012)

-in July we opened up a new social space for street-based sex workers called Maggie's Lounge. Collectively, members of both the Lounge and ASWEOP created the zine "17 Reasons" in which sex workers with street experience respond to International Day To End Violence Against Sex Workers--which we launched on Dec 17!

-In October we held our smashing 25th anniversary party at Filmore's, capped off by the surprise honour of being awarded the Talon D'or (Golden Heel) Award by our sisters at Stella in Montreal

-in November we hosted internationally renowned sex workers rights advocate and author Laura Agustin on "Sex At The Margins: Migration, Labour Markets & The Rescue Industry" to a standing room only audience

-also in November we began conducting trainings on the experiences of youth in sex work, informed by the experiences of former youth sex workers themselves

-all year long we developed resources by and for sex working communities. e.g. we created the city's only resource on how to navigate Toronto stripping/massage/bodyrub licenses, we updated resources for new workers, we completed a document for migrant sex workers planning to work in Toronto and worked with the Asian Community AIDS Service on developing a manual for outreach workers to migrant Asian sex workers

-we created the city's only list of sex worker competent therapists, counselors and social workers (contact us to be added)

-We marched in May Day, Toronto Pride, conducted workshops and in-service trainings to agencies across GTA, spoke at the U of T Law Society, George Brown College, The Native Women's Resource Centre of Toronto for Int'l AIDS Day, Sisters in Spirit Vigil, "Sex work and Indigenous Communities" panel in Ottawa and to countless media outlets and agencies serving sex workers across the GTA.

-In addition to all this we, provided direct support, advocacy, safer working and drug-using supplies, HIV-prevention resources and community to sex workers across Toronto

We're looking forward to 2012 with so many upcoming workshops, events, trainings and more as we build our strength together. Please support our work! We are a small organization and your one-time or monthly donations *directly* support us in providng education, advocacy, HIV-prevention and support to assist sex workers to live and work with safety and dignity. Maggie's is a registered charity and your donation is 100% tax deductible.

Donate here: www.maggiestoronto.ca/donate or call 416-964-0150

February 14: Raising Our Voices to Support the United Nation’s Request to Investigate Canada’s Missing Indigenous Women

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 18:34:00 -0500

Maggie's: Toronto Sex Workers Action Group is adding our voice to those requesting a UN investigation into Canada's missing and murdered Indigenous women. Join uson Feb 14th for the 8th annual rally.

----------------------------------------------

Raising our Voices to Support the United Nations Request to Investigate Canada's Missing & Murdered Indigenous women

According to research conducted by the Native Women Association of Canada (NWAC) under the Sisters In Spirit Program, over 600 Indigenous women have been murdered or gone missing, most of them over the last 30 years.

Despite clear evidence that this is an ongoing issue, the federal government decided in the fall of 2010 to end funding to Sisters in Spirit. Instead monies in the amount of $10 million have been dedicated to a central RCMP missing person centre. The same institution - who, along with the Vancouver Police Department, failed to properly investigate Pickton in 1997 - is now at the centre of a public inquiry in Vancouver. The sham inquiry into the failed Pickton investigation has been boycotted by 20 of the 21 groups who were granted standing due to the denial of adequate funding for legal defense.

Pickton, who was convicted for six murders, has admitted to killing 49 women. A total of 18 murders occurred after he was arrested and released for the attempted murder of a sex worker in 1997. This is blood on police hands, yet RCMP officers testifying at the sham inquiry state “there are few things they would change about how they did their work.”

It should come as no surprise that the Committee to End Discrimination Against Women at the United Nations has accepted submissions put forward by advocates of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside (DTES) as well as the Native Women's Association of Canada and announced their intent to launch an inquiry into Canada's missing and murdered Indigenous women.

This inquiry procedure is used to investigate what the Committee believes to be very serious violations of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. The Canadian government, however, must consent in order for this to move forward. Alongside groups across the country, Toronto's February 14^th organizing committee comprised of No More Silence, The Native Youth Sexual Health Network, The Native Women's Resource Centre and other Indigenous and feminist organizations will be mobilizing at Police Headquarters at 12:30 pm to show our support for such an investigation.

On February 14^th we come together in solidarity with the women who started this vigil over 20 years ago in Vancouver's DTES, and with the marches and rallies that will be taking place across this land. We stand in defense of our lives and to demonstrate against the complicity of the state in the ongoing genocide of Indigenous women and the impunity of state institutions and actors (police, RCMP, coroners' offices, the courts, and an indifferent federal government) that prevents justice for all Indigenous peoples.

-No More Silence

Reducing Stigma & Building Our Capacity

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 19:12:00 -0500

A FREE Workshop For Sex Workers | Jan 28 & 29, 2012 in Toronto

∗ Are you interested in reducing prejudice and stigma against sex workers when accessing public services?

∗ Do you want to reinforce your capacity to do public education and enrich trainings on sex work that are offered to outreach workers?

∗ Do you want to develop or to improve your skills and participate in making sex workers voices more heard?

****

This workshop is an opportunity to develop your knowledge as an educator, reinforce your capacity to live with stigma, learn about the principles of popular education, and share your knowledge and skills about sex work in trainings/education.

****

Toronto workshop dates:
Saturday January 28 and Sunday January 29, 2012

Facilitators: Nengeh Mensah and Chris Bruckert

Who can participate?

-ANYONE who has experience in the sex industry

-Be available for the two-day workshop

-Motivated to do public education

-Desire to reinforce your capacity and refine your discourse

-Support the total decriminalization of sex work

-Ideally you have a link to an organization who offers the training, does education with adults and outreach workers who offer public services (ie, classrooms,workshops, trainings, etc.)

Email [email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected] for a registration form. Registration forms are due by January 20, 2012. For more information, call Maggies: 416-964-0150.

Places are limited. Register early to ensure your spot! You will receive a certificate for participating in the workshop.

The workshop will be held in a wheelchair accessible location. If you have specific needs (ie translation, TTC tokens, childcare, etc), please contact us and we will try to meet them.

THE WORKSHOP IS FREE! Lunch will be provided during the workshop but you will need to cover your own travel and expenses outside of workshop hours.

17 Reasons: Sex Workers, Reslience and Resistance

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:43:00 -0500

Celebrating all the creative ways we survive, thrive and live our beautiful lives!

In honour of International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, the members of Maggie's are launching a collectively-made zine featuring the writing and art-work of sex workers with street-experience.

Containing the sparkling brilliance, inspiration, humour, insight and analysis from the people who best understand the causes and solutions to the intersections of oppressions which lead to violence against sex workers.

Be there to hear the stories live & get your copy of 17 Reasons: Sex Workers, Resilience and Resistance!

Saturday, Dec 17
4-6 pm
the 519 Community Centre (room 106, main floor)
Wheelchair accessible room & washrooms
free | light snacks | tokens for sex working community members

Writing & Art-Making Circle by & for Aboriginal sex workers

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:20:00 -0500

In honour of Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week, Maggie's is hosting a writing and art-making circle by and for Aboriginal people of all genders in the sex trade who will be creating art that celebrates all the ways that Aboriginal sex workers creatively survive and thrive.

Thursday Dec 8 | 2-4.30 pm | 2 Spirits, 593 Yonge street Suite 202 | snax and tokens provided | If you would like to participate, please leave a message for Moni of the Aboriginal Sex Workers Education and Outreach Project at 416-964-0150

Selections from the writing circle will be published in the Maggie's zine "17 reasons: sex workers, resilience and resistance" to be launched on Dec 17 in honour of International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. All writers are invited to come read their stories on Dec 17 at the 519! Click here for details.

World AIDS day--Honouring Aboriginal Women

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:47:00 -0500

World AIDS Day feast to honor Aboriginal Women

Maggie's is honoured to be speaking at the Native Women's Resource Centre on December 1 as we honour the lives of women who have passed into the spirit world from AIDS and to remember all those currently living with HIV/AIDS.

The community and all those involved in supporting women living with AIDS are invited for food, singing and prayer.

Thursday Dec 1st
5-8 pm
Native Women’s Resource Centre of Toronto
191 Gerrard st. E
416. 963. 9963

Maggie's Marks Trans Day of Remembrance

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:20:00 -0500

Join Maggie's as we remember, mourn and celebrate the lives of transgendered people we have lost in the past year.

Maggie's Aboriginal Sex Worker Education and Outreach Project co-coordinator Monica Forrestor will be speaking on the experiences of transgendered sex workers. More details about the event can be found here.

Friday, November 18, 2011
The 519 Community Centre, 519 Church Street
7-9 PM
Free & wheelchair accessible

Bone Weary: A Fond Farewell to the Sex Trade

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 13:27:00 -0500

Friend of Maggie's, Gerald Hannon is celebrating his 25 years in the sex industry with a splashy retirement party & you are invited! All proceeds to Maggie's: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project.

"I became a whore in 1987 (I know -- that's only 24 years ago but I'm a journalist and know from headlines) so I could make my rent and eat. I stuck with it, long after I could have quit, because I liked it. That part of my life went public, with a bang, in 1995 because of the Ryerson scandal. I figured I should go out with a bang too. This seemed a good time, given that the constitutionality of the prostitution laws is being challenged by Terri-Jean Bedford and Val Scott (both of them heroes, in my books), and that Maggie's, the sex workers organization of which I was once a board member, is celebrating its 25th anniversary as well.

So, join me and my slutty and/or journalistic and/or operatic friends (I cover a lot of bases!) for a lewd good time at Goodhandy's, the most progressive club on Church Street. Help kick the butt of Canada's archaic anti-prostitution laws."

Friday, November 25, 2011
Goodhandy's 120 Church Street
9 pm - 2 am

(Goodhandy's is not a wheelchair accessible venue)

Sex At The Margins: Migration, Labour Markets and The Rescue Industry

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 09:36:00 -0500

Maggie's: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project is proud to host Laura Agustín, an internationally renowned sex worker rights advocate and an expert on undocumented migration and informal labour markets. She will be giving a talk based on her book, “Sex at the Margins: Migration, Labour Markets and the Rescue Industry”.

Sex at the Margins questions several popular beliefs about migrants who sell sex: that they are all passive victims, that the job of selling sex is completely different from any other kind of work and that the multitude of people out to save them are without self-interest. Laura Agustín argues that the label ‘trafficked’ does not accurately describe most migrants and that a Rescue Industry disempowers them. Based on extensive research amongst migrants who sell sex as well as social helpers, Sex at the Margins demonstrates how migration policy marginalises informal-sector workers and how anti-prostitution campaigns turn sex workers into casualties of globalisation.

Thursday, November 24, 2011
7:30pm

PLEASE NOTE NEW LOCATION: The Raging Spoon, 761 Queen Street West

Fully wheelchair accessible room and washrooms | Free

Endorsed by No One Is Illegal--Toronto, Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Ryerson University and Ryerson Student Union

Check out Laura Agustín’s blog at http://www.lauraagustin.com/

Thursday! Hu$tle & Dough: Youth Sex Workers Build Power and Safety

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 22:30:00 -0400

Thursday November 3, at Maggie's (298 Gerrard St E, 2nd floor), 6-8.30 pm

Facilitated by a current sex worker who began as a youth, this skillshare will bring together sex workers 24 years and under. This interactive, arts-based workshop will be a positive, open space for youth 18 and under to learn about

-How to be in control while working

-How to support yourself financially, physically and emotionally

-How to avoid arrest, HIV and violence!

-your rights

Snacks and tokens provided. Open to ALL genders and all sexual identities. Queer and trans positive. Contact Phoenix at [email protected] for more info or flyers!

No One Is Illegal's Statement In Support of Maggie's

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:48:00 -0400

No One Is Illegal - Toronto statement on 25 years of Maggie's Sex Workers Action Project

Online at http://toronto.nooneisillegal.org/node/638

As Maggie’s Sex Workers Action Project celebrates 25 years of existence, we at No One Is Illegal - Toronto would like to take a moment to commend your organization on a quarter century of creating substantive change in the lives of sex workers.

We stand in firm solidarity with Maggie’s Sex Workers Action Project mission to support and advance sex workers’ right to live and work with dignity and in safety. These struggles for dignity, for justice, for self-determination unite our organizing efforts at a foundational level and continue to strengthen our bonds of solidarity.

We understand that justice for sex workers means justice for migrants. We understand that those laws that criminalize sex workers work in conjunction with the laws and borders that criminalize migrants. We know that to fight for decent, safe work environments for sex workers means also to fight workplace raids by police and immigration enforcement, detentions and deportations. We know that in fighting Harper’s anti-woman agenda, we are fighting to ensure all women and trans-folk, regardless of immigration status, have access to essential services like healthcare, including reproductive health services, and anti-VAW spaces. We know that to struggle for an end to violence against sex workers is to resist the racist, colonial violence exacted on indigenous women in particular. We know that the struggle for sex worker self-determination is a struggle for status for all.

Maggie’s struggle is integrally linked to our own. While the forces our movements are up against are formidable, united in solidarity, so too are we.

In struggle and solidarity,
No One Is Illegal - Toronto

Update on Access

Sat, 29 Oct 2011 17:49:00 -0400

Maggie's: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project regrets to inform you that our upcoming 25th Anniversary Party on October 30th at Filmore's will not be wheelchair accessible as stated in our print advertising, online invitation and Facebook page.

Despite our efforts with the assistance of Filmore's to ensure wheelchair accessability for this event, we are not able to do so without violation of city fire codes. This constitutes an exclusion of people with mobility issues and we take responsibility for this.

We are committed to access for all and endeavor to prevent this from happening in the future. We thank you for your ongoing support of Maggie's work as well as the work of the sex workers rights movement.

Keisha Scott, Executive Director

Maggie's: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project

The Myths of “Ending Demand” for Prostitution

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 14:13:00 -0400

Join Maggie's as we examine the harmful effects of campaigns to end sex work by criminalizing the clients. Free. No RSVP required--we'd love to see you there!

Conservative MP Joy Smith’s public campaign to criminalize the purchase of sexual services reflects a troubling global campaign to “end demand” for prostitution. “End demand” campaigns are premised on an absolutist view of prostitution as exploitation, wherein all sex workers are cast as victims, and all clients as perpetrators. This panel will address the harmful consequences of “end demand” strategies, with a view to advancing alternative social and legal policies that can make a difference for socially marginalized workers in and beyond the sex industry.

An interdisciplinary panel discussion with:

Susan Davis

Current sex worker of 25 years; Development coordinator, West Coast cooperative of Sex Industry Professionals, Vancouver

Kara Gillies

Representative, Maggie’s: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project

Ummni Khan

Assistant Professor, Department of Law, Carleton University

Emilie Laliberte

Director-General, Chez Stella, l’aime de Maimie, Montréal

Emily van der Meulen

Assistant Professor, Dept. of Criminal Justice& Criminology, Ryerson University

Moderated by Lisa Kelly, S.J.D. Candidate, Harvard Law School

Introduction by Rebecca Cook, University of Toronto, Faculty of Law

Thursday, Oct. 20, 2011,

4:30-6:00pm

Moot Court Room, Flavelle House

University of Toronto, Faculty of Law

78 Queen’s Park, Toronto, Ontario

Sponsored by:The International Reproductive and Sexual Health Law Programme, Faculty of Law, University of Toronto ([email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]).

Maggie's is coming to Vancouver/Coast Salish Territories

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 15:15:00 -0400

The Sex Workers' Rights Movement and Indigenous Communities

Tuesday November 1, 7.30-10.30 pm

Join Maggie's Executive Director Keisha Scott, Jessica Yee (Maggie's board member and Native Youth Sexual Health Network executive director),
Sarah Hunt (Ph.D Candidate and Independent Researcher/Community Educator) and Ivo Haggerty (Cargnelli)/ Sta' xai' luum Blackstone as they create a space for honest discussion on building consensual solidarity between communities.

Admission by donation (no one will be turned away)

Downtown Vancouver YWCA

535 Hornby, 4th floor Welch Room 1 & 2

Vancouver, BC, Unceded Coast Salish Territories

October 30-Maggie's Turns 25!

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 12:11:00 -0400

Maggie's: Toronto sex workers action project is celebrating 25 years as on of the oldest sex-worker-run organizations in the world & we want you with us at our big $exy bash!!

You are whordially invited to join your sisters and brothers in the skin trade for an evening of debauchery and dancing. With a special cabaret, celebrating our lives featuring:
Ill Nana
Lucas Silveira
CoCo LaCreme
Mercedes Lee
Pole dancing by the Pole Club
Sabrina
MC Jazz Kamal
Chester Brown reading from his book "Paying For It"
DJ's Secret Agent and Cozmic Cat! Auctions, prizes and Whore-overs
Fluffy Souffle as your mistress of iniquity

Sunday October 30
Filmore's 212 Dundas Street East
Doors at 8 pm
$5 for sex workers (no one turned away for lack of funds)
$15-20 for allies
(we are still recruiting volunteers!)
Tix available at Good For Her, the door & Maggie's
All proceeds go towards our national fight for the decriminalization of sex work in Canada

The majority of Filmore's club will be wheelchair accessible for this event--not including the washrooms | ASL Interpretation will be available. Please contact us about any other access issues | 19+ ID required by the club

For more information, to volunteer or if you want help getting ID, visit us at: www.maggiestoronto.ca email us at [email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected] or call 416-964-0150

Check out this story about our ba$h in this week's NOW magazine by Sasha Van Bon Bon

See you there!

~Maggie’s Toronto Sex Workers Action Project

Maggie's Turns 25!

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 09:57:00 -0400

SAVE THE DATE--MAGGIE'S TURNS 25!

Maggie's is celebrating 25 years as the oldest sex-worker-run organizations in the world & we want you with us at our big $exy bash!
WHEN: Sunday October 30, doors at 7.30 PM
WHERE: Filmore's Gentlemen's Club, 212 Dundas Street East
HOW: Tickets will be available online, at Maggie's and at Good For Her
Tix: $5 for sex workers (no one turned away for lack of funds) | Allies: $15-20 sliding scale

We are recruiting volunteers for the event (including hostessing, wheatpasting crews, attendant care etc) as well as auction items. If you are interested, please contact us at [email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]. Priority will go to sex workers and items that are of practical use to sex workers.

ASL interpretation provided | Wheelchair accessible space but only partially accessible washrooms

For more information email [email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected] or call 416-964-0150

Join Maggie's at the Sisters In Spirit Vigil, Oct 4

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:39:00 -0400

Join Maggie's at the Sisters In Spirit Vigil to hear from various speakers including Maurganne Mooney, Co-coordinator of the Aboriginal Education and Outreach Project.

October 4 · 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Allan Gardens
South of Carlton and North of Gerrard between Jarvis and Sherbourne
Toronto, ON

Community Members,

Native Women's Resource Centre along with several partnering organizations is hosting a "Sisters In Spirit Vigil" . As we have in past years we are holding the event at Allan Gardens the beautiful park located across from our home at 191 Gerrard Street East.

Please come out to celebrate and remember the lives of our mothers, sisters, aunties, grandmothers and friends that have been taken from us too soon lea...ving behind a legacy of memories and loved ones. We will begin at 7:00pm and go right through to 9:00pm all the while enjoying an array of guest speakers, singers, drummers, dancers and of course our candle-lit lanterns.

TTC Directions--
Coming from Sherbourne Station- Take the 95 Sherbourne Bus Southbound to the intersection of Sherbourne and Carlton.

For more Information Please call: (416) 963-9963 and ask for Nicole or e-mail us at[email protected]"> [email protected]

Partnering Organizations Include:
Amnesty International
Anduhyaun Inc.
Council Fire
Maggie's: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project
Native Candian Centre of Toronto
Native Youth Sexual Health Network
No More Silence
PASAN
Sistering
Toronto Rape Crisis Centre/Multicultural Women Against Rape

New Workshops from Maggie's!

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:59:00 -0400

Get the 411 on sex work! Members of Maggie's: Toronto Sex Workers Action Project will be presenting the following workshops over the next few weeks

1. Sex Work Decrim: Get The Facts

Wednesday September 28th 12:30pm-2:30pm
Student Centre RM 313, YORK UNIVERSITY (more info here)
Facilitated by Phoenix and Kara from Maggie's: Toronto Sex Worker Action Project

In this workshop we will explore the difference between the legalization and
decriminalization of sex work. Looking at current by laws and licensing structures
that exist in other sectors of the sex trade we will develop an understanding of
what decriminalization could look like in Toronto, it’s impact on diverse groups
of sex workers, and ways we can support groups lead by sex workers who wish to
take the lead on policy development. We will also provide an understanding of
decrim models that currently exist in other countries and give an update on the
outcome of the Bedford appeal hearing that happened throughout the week of June 13th.

2. Hu$tle & Dough: Youth Sex Workers Build Power and Safety

NEW DATE: Thursday November 3, at Maggie's (298 Gerrard St E, 2nd floor), 6-8.30 pm

-How to be in control while working

-How to support yourself financially, physically and emotionally

-How to avoid arrest, HIV and violence!

-your rights

Snacks and tokens provided. Open to ALL genders and all sexual identities. Queer and trans positive. Contact Phoenix at [email protected] for more info or flyers!

Looking for a therapist?

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:43:00 -0400

Maggie's is pleased to announce that we have recently developed a listing of therapists with experience working one-on-one with sex workers in a respectful and non-judgmental manner. Most of them do not have sex work experience themselves but do support sex-worker self-determination and understand some of the issues we face. Please contact us if you are looking for a therapist or counselor to work with one-on-one.

In Memory Of Wendy Babcock

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 18:59:00 -0400

We at Maggie's remember sex work activist, Wendy Babcock. A memorial to honour the life and work of Wendy will be held on Thursday September 15 th in Allan Gardens and in Buddies In Bad Times Theatre. The memorial is 6-8 pm followed by an afterparty at Buddies in Bad Times theatre at 9 pm. Details here are from the event page on facebook. Also check out wendybabcock.org

6pm - 8pm Memorial - dinner will be served at Allen Gardens Park (Carlton/Sherbourne) followed by the memorial.

9pm - Buddies In Bad Times Theater After Party to celebrate Wendy's life with performers, music and DJ's.

Both events are open to all of Wendy's friends, family, and community. Unfortunately the after party is 19+.

Child care and play area will be available at the memorial in the park. We ask you to please stay with your child/children.

The event at Buddies is free but we are asking for people if they can afford to, too possibly make a "pay what you can" donation to contribute to Wendy's memorial and a park bench and plaque to be placed in Allen Gardens Park in her honour.

Slide Show: If you have pictures of Wendy that you would like shared publicly as part of the slide show at the memorial and after party, please send them to Myra Hewson at [email protected].

Volunteers: If you are interested in volunteering your time on the day of the memorial (food serving, set up/clean up, etc.) please send an email to the memorial subcommittee via [email protected].

Thanks and we look forward to having this day to celebrate and honour our dear friend, Wendy. We miss you so much!

August Events At Maggie's

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 15:57:00 -0400

The Sex Worker BBQ & Hand drumming workshop by & for Aboriginal Sex Workers!

August 23: Join us at the Maggie's Sex Worker BBQ, Tuesday August 23 in Riverdale park (west side)! Free food, fun, sex worker positivity and community. Come meet new friends in the industry! Open to all sex workers in all parts of the industry and our allies.

Where: Wellesley Park, 1 block north of Riverdale park West. Look out for the red streamers.

When: Tuesday August 23, 2-5 pm

August 26: The Aboriginal Sex Worker Education and Outreach Project is hosting a drumming workshop for Aboriginal sex workers of all genders on Friday Aug 26, 2-5 pm! (tokens & food available)

Where: Maggie's (298A Gerrard street East, 2nd Floor)

When: Friday August 26, 2-5 pm.

August 30: Writing Circle for Aboriginal Sex Workers--tell us about your experiences of sex work! Honorarium/food provided

Where: Maggie's (298A Gerrard street East, 2nd floor)

When: Tuesday August 30, 2-5 pm

The Aboriginal Sex Work Education and Outreach Project is by and for Aboriginal sex workers. Together we want to build your power to work safely, have safer sex and safer drug use, use street sense to reduce violence and HIV. We host talking circles, meals, develop resources and other activities and events. To get involved contact Maurganne at 416-828-8407 or [email protected]. This project is for street sex workers of all genders and of Indigenous descent.

Seeking sex-worker-competent therapists, counselors & social workers

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:08:00 -0400

Are you a therapist, counselor or social worker? Are you accepting new clients and have experience working with sex workers?

If so, we'd like to talk to you! Maggie's is developing its referral list for sex workers who are seeking therapists (of all modalities), counselors and social workers who have experience and competence working with sex workers. People we refer to you may be current or former sex workers from all areas of the sex industry. They may be seeking assistance with issues that have nothing to do with sex work, but they need providers who can offer non-discriminatory and sex-work-competent services to them for whatever issues they're facing.

Please review our principles and activities to assess whether you might be a good fit with Maggie's. If you would like to be on our referral list, please contact us at: [email protected] or call 416-964-0150 and we'll go through our brief series of questions we use to determine the best fit between you and our members.

LGB2STSQ Sex Workers Unite! Join Maggie's in the Toronto Dyke March

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:13:00 -0400

Maggie's will be marching proudly in this Saturday's annual Dyke March with lesbian, gay, bisexual, two-spiritied, transsexual and queer sex workers and allies! Come join us! (see here for info about the Dyke March)

1pm - 1.30pm meet at Maggie's 298A Gerrard Street East
Come pick up your sex worker-made signs!

2 pm meet at the corner of Church St and Hayden street
We'll be marching behind the big Maggie's banner

We'll have HEAPS of hot whore-loving signs for y'all to grab so no worries about making something ahead of time. Just bring your proud selves and march gayily forward toward LGB2STSQ communities that respect and recognize their sex working histories (like the fact that the Stonewall riot was started by Black and Latina sex working trans women who were fighting back against police brutality!)

The Ontario Women’s Study: What Ontario Women Have to Say about HIV Prevention: Implications for Policy and Program Development

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 10:53:00 -0400

The Ontario Women’s Study (or, OWS) will look at how to improve HIV prevention for different groups of women living in Ontario. The OWS is a community-based research project. The idea for the study came from women in the community, from people who provide services to women and researchers. The OWS will ask women to talk about their HIV prevention needs and what puts women at risk for HIV.

Are you currently working in indoor sex industry locations including:

in-call and out-call escorting, massage parlours, domination and dungeons, dance and peep show venues and pornography?

Are you 18 years or older?

Would YOU like to be part of a group discussion to talk about HIV prevention?

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

6:00 to 8:30 pm - Dinner, Registration and Focus Group Discussion

Art Room, Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON

Focus group participants must register to be part of the discussion.

To register for the focus group meeting or to ask questions call:

Lea Narciso

Research Manager

416-642-6486 Ext. 2231

This research study has been approved by the Ottawa Hospital Research Ethics Board and the University of Toronto HIV Research Ethics Board. This research is supported by a Research Operating Grant from the Ontario HIV Treatment Network.

Maggie's/POWER statement to Ontario Court of Appeal

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 15:23:00 -0400

Maggie's: The Toronto Sex Workers Action Project and POWER, an Ottawa-based sex worker rights group argued in favour of decriminalization of sex work in the Ontario Court of Appeal Thursday June 16. Both organizations were granted intervenor status opposing the Canadian and Ontario government’s appeal of Justice Himel's landmark ruling last year striking down three of Canada's prostitution laws as unconstitutional.

Attached here is the factum that Maggie's and POWER submitted to the court outlining our position.

Call out: Trans SWers for Edited Book

Wed, 25 May 2011 12:46:00 -0400

We are an academic and sex worker trio pulling together an edited book about sex work in Canada from a rights-based perspective. We're looking for trans folks who work in the sex industry who would like to have an informal conversation about their experiences with one of our authors.

There are no pre-set questions for the conversation, however the author is interested in asking about what kinds of issues workers deal with as trans people, things they would like to see happen in the event of decrim, and general thoughts about SW. The conversation can take place over the phone or in person and will probably take 20-30 minutes.

Contact person is Victoria Love: [email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]
Please forward this message to any one you think might be interested!

Maggie's at May Day 2011: Status for all!

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:13:00 -0400

Join Maggie's in marching on May Day: Status for All!

May 1, 2011 at 1pm
Queen St W. and Jameson St (Parkdale)
Look for Maggie's red umbrellas!

Why do sex workers march on May Day?

Sex workers join the May Day March as workers, artists, parents, lovers, fighters…all the things that we are!!! We want to send a clear message that sex workers demand decriminalization and migrant justice for themselves, their families, friends, and for any displaced people who arrive in Canada to find the injustice of borders, detention centre, sex workplace raids, stigma, deportations and a racist and sex worker phobic culture of immigration.

No More!

The elections are coming and the current Tory government is appealing Justice Himel's landmark decision to decriminalize three provisions of the Criminal Code that affect sex workers. The Tories have cut funding to women's advocacy groups and initiatives by 43%, closing 12 of 16 Status of Women offices across Canada and eliminating funding for legal voices for women including the National Association of Women and the Law and the Court Challenges Program. They have cut funding to safe abortion services abroad. They have ordered border thugs to attack women fleeing violence at shelters and support services. Immigration regulations were introduced where spouses or common law partners would have to stay in a relationship for two years after coming to Canada to gain permanent status - forcing people to choose between abusive partnerships or losing status, and further placing queer relationships under the scrutiny of the state.

Come to Maggie's on Sat April 30 at 4pm to make signs connecting sex workers and migrant justice.

More info? contact us:
[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]
www.facebook.com/maggiestoronto

Prostitution arrests continue against Ontario sex workers

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 18:14:00 -0400

The week of April 7, 2011, Ottawa region police conducted city-wide prostitution sweeps, making 28 arrests and laying 53 criminal charges.

This confirms what Maggie's reported in 2010--that sex workers and their clients continue to face arrest and repression by police despite last September's legal decision that the current laws against sex work violate sex workers' constitutional rights.

This is a reminder to sex workers that legally, NOTHING HAS CHANGED and the same laws are all in place. See here for more background about the case.

Statement on the death of Kara Freeland

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:37:00 -0400

March 23, 2011

Statement on the death of Kara Freeland

Maggie's: the Toronto Sex Workers Action Project respectfully offers our condolences to the friends, family and community of Kera Freeland.

We must also condemn the recent media coverage of her death, which exemplifies sensationalistic, lurid and exploitative journalism.

Ms. Freeland was a 20-year-old woman who we believe was also an escort. So far we have no evidence that her death is linked to her work nor that she was killed by a client or anyone connected to the sex industry. We also have no evidence that Ms. Freeland was open about her work to her family and friends. Regardless, her death is being feasted on by those who are attributing her death to her work and her "lifestyle" and her privacy is being disregarded entirely.

We regard this as sexist victim-blaming and discrimination against sex workers. We're confident that the same associations between work and violence would not have been made if Ms. Freeland were in any other profession. If her death is work related, it is further evidence that lack of rights and criminalization put sex worker's lives at risk.

In our 25 years, we have seen the media and politicians shamelessly appropriate violence against sex workers (whether the violence was work related or not) and use it to advance their own anti-sex work agendas, stereotypes and prejudices. We firmly oppose any proposal for a "red-light district" as it would only further segregate sex workers, who also live, work, study and have families in Toronto. Sex workers themselves must lead any initiatives to further their safety.

We call on city politicians and media to respect the family and friends of Ms. Freeland and end the speculation about her death and its relationship to her work.

If these same people are concerned about the well-being and safety of sex workers, then we encourage them to listen to those who are experts in sex work safety: sex workers themselves.

Maggie's: The Toronto Sex Workers Action Project is an organization run for and by local sex workers. Our mission is to assist sex workers in our efforts to live and work with safety and dignity. We are founded on the belief that in order to improve our circumstances, sex workers must control our own lives and destinies.

Media Contact: [email protected] or 416.964.0150 www.maggiestoronto.ca

What Works for Sex Workers

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 12:58:00 -0500

Maggie’s is holding the second in our series "What Works for Sex Workers: Developing Informed Policy in VAW Agencies". Last year's event "What Works for Sex Workers: Providing Effective and Appropriate Services for Women, Men and Trans People Working in the Sex Trades" was a huge success. We had 300 registrants (for 50 seats) from multiple service sectors! Evaluations indicated that more information and policy discussion would be beneficial for women who are sex workers who use VAW services, and for VAW workers.

We intend this year's forum to be a smaller and more intimate event directed to women who are Executive Directors, Board members and management who influence and design policy in their VAW agencies.

It is well known that various positions on prostitution in some feminist perspectives continue to present obstacles in developing and designing best practices and informed policies for women who are sex workers and who use VAW services including shelters and rape crisis centres. Please join us in a day long forum designed to share information about:

*The conceptualization of prostitution as violence against women

*Trafficking discourses in relation to sex work

*Legislation and regulatory models which contribute to violence against women working in the sex trades

*Designing policies in VAW agencies that support sex working women.

The day is designed to encourage values clarification, analyses and dialogue in a manner which integrates gender, colonialism, race and class to support women’s human and labour rights. Registration is limited.

Breakfast, lunch and refreshments will be served. There is funding for travel and accommodation.

To register and for further information, please contact communications(at)maggiestoronto.ca or telephone our forum co-ordinator Nora Currie at 416-929-0580

Please review these sex work resources in advance of the forum

Sex Worker Soiree!

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 18:24:00 -0500

Free Sex Worker Soiree! | March 3 | International Sex Workers Day

Current and former sex workers of Toronto, Maggie's invites you to an intimate soiree to mark International Sex Workers Day on March 3.

Join us for a night of food, sexy short films made by sex workers and conversation.

Films by local sex workers: "Every Ho I Know Says So", "69 Reasons I love sex work" and "Yapping Out Loud: Confessions of an unrepentant whore".

Wheelchair accessible location. Please contact us for information on location. Free! 7 pm.

More about the history of International Sex Workers Day

Sharing, Celebrating, Decolonizing Indigenous sex work

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 19:17:00 -0500

co-sponsored by the Native Youth Sexual Health Network and Maggies: The Toronto Sex Workers Action Project

Join us! Saturday December 18
Native Canadian Centre, 16 Spadina Road
6-9 pm (food served at 6 pm)

FREE event! All welcome!

Traditional Feast catered by Ringfire Productions
Performances from RED SLAM and Brenda MacIntyre
Roundtable Discussion
Celebratory giveaway

In honor of the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers - this will be an evening for us as as Indigenous people and communities to listen, discuss, and learn how to end violence against sex workers from Indigenous perspectives.

A supportive, non-judgmental space for sex workers (current and former) community members and youth. This event will respect the right of self-determination over our lives and bodies for all Indigenous people including sex workers.

Please bring what you can for the giveaway (art, momentos, crafts, recipes, etc). Everyone is welcome to participate with/without an item.

Free event - ASL Interpretation available - Wheelchair accessible -Children Welcome - Please note this event is December 18 not December 17

Aboriginal sex worker talking circle

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 19:44:00 -0500

Racism in sex work, Work safety, Making more cash: A Talking Circle for Indigenous Sex Workers

A non-judgmental space that acknowledges the right to self-determination while we listen, learn and
discuss how to end violence against sex workers from Indigenous perspectives.

Location: Maggie’s 298 A Gerrard Street East.

When: December 17th, 6pm-9pm

Free Food & Honorarium $60. 00 First come, first served.

RSVP to Maurganne (416) 964-0150 (ext 2).