Sex Workers Latin America Demanding Healthcare and Recognition

To most of us, selling your body for sex, is dirty, shameful and most of all unfortunate. But for some women, they believe that it is their right. Elena Reynaga, General Secretary of the Latin American and Caribbean Sex Workers Network (RedTraSex) and former sex worker says, "It is crucial to recognise sex workers officially"– She does not see why this, the oldest profession, should not be treated like any other. Everybody has to work for a living, she says. Some women, brought up in poverty, have nothing else to offer. 'this body is mine – why do I have to ask the permission of society to do what I want to do with it? It is the only thing that is mine. If I want to make money from that, it is my right'."


Elena believes that giving sex workers condoms, and sex education about HIV and AIDS is not helping. Recognition is key, she thinks. Elena and The Latin American and Caribbean Sex Workers Network want healthcare, education, and protection of the law. 


Finally learning how to read and write, Elena says that education can bring a path out away from sex working once and for all, they just need legislation to get it. 

Elena speaking at the International Aids Confrence

-----Rupal Joshi