New England Sex Work Summit

From November 18-20th, 2022 sex workers, survivors, harm reduction advocates, non-profit organizations, elected officials, sexual health educators, funders, and community organizers came together for the first summit dedicated to issues focused on the sex trades in New England. The Ishtar Collective had been planning, conceptualizing, and envisioning this convening since 2020 and we were finally able to meet in person for a truly extraordinary series of events in 2022. We were honored to organize this event in collaboration with independent advocates and organizations such as the Erotic Laborers Alliance of New England, Queen City Pride of New Hampshire, and New Moon Network. Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time and resources. We were also humbled to have expert presenters from these groups and others like BIPOC-Collective, Lysistrata Collective, Pride Center of Vermont. Representatives attended from all over New England, New York, and New Jersey from organizations such as Black and Pink Massachusetts, Main TransNet, Ocean State Advocacy, Sex Workers and Allies Network (SWAN), SWOP Brooklyn, Woodhull Freedom Foundation, and Old Pros. We believe in taking care of ourselves while we advocate for others, so this summit had 2 tacks and lasted 2 days. It was truly something powerful, healing, and impactful. It was made by us and for our sex working communities across New England. We were honored to have low-income, formerly incarcerated, QTBIPOC, and differently-abled organizers, speakers, and attendees come together for self-care and policy advocacy workshops as well as community events. Thanks to everyone who made this powerful convening a reality through your donations, volunteering and presence! 

Stay tuned for news on the 2024 New England Sex Work Summit!