A National Network That Supports The Human Rights Of Those Involved In The Sex Trade
WHAT WE DO:
Public Education ~ Members give lectures at local universities, develop and present training workshops at conferences and social service agencies. We create and distribute information and resources to help educate the public and also work to reduce individual and institutional violence against Sex Workers.
Awareness ~ We host public events on International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, Trans Day of Remembrance, and Sex Worker Rights Day and more. We organize marches and protests and engage media advocacy to help raise awareness on the issues of violence, stigma and discrimination in Sex Worker communities.
Advocacy ~ Members advocate on behalf of sex workers and against institutional policies, practices and laws that increase violence and stigma against our communities.
Empowerment and Leadership Development ~ We support the development of new leaders through retreats, training, and education on rights, community organizing, and inter-sectional social justice frameworks.
Peer Support ~ Members create peer-led programming to support sex workers. We operate hotlines and bad date lists, conduct online and street-based outreach, hold workshops, and develop informational resources for community members.
Keywords: human rights, social justice, support, sex worker, prostitution, outreach, community
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Since April 14th, 2015
What is your primary product or service?
Education
Advocacy
Harm Reduction
Peer Led Support
Community Events
Public Speaking
Facilitate Classes and Workshops
Moderate Groups
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
I have been in the sex industry for my entire adult life and have suffered tremendous harms due to it being criminalized. When I "retired", I was lost and sought out a support system that would not "shame" me or try to "save my soul". That's when I noticed just how many sex workers rights organization were now on social media. I joined some of them but remained quiet in the groups and such. Suddenly, Sex Workers Outreach Project, USA began to form in other cities across the US. So, I contacted them about San Antonio. Had a meeting here with two board members from SWOP USA and was given permission to organize the San Antonio chapter. That was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
It's easy to differentiate from other businesses like mine here in San Antonio mainly because there are no other "rights-based" organizations here for sex workers.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
I, personally, do not have other locations, but Sex Workers Outreach Projects of San Antonio has many "sister" chapters across America and Sex Workers Outreach Project, USA is the "core" for all of us.
As for expanding here in San Antonio, Yes, I do hope that SWOP SATX will grow and expand here.
What type of payments do you accept?
We accept donations, they are tax-deductible since we are a 501(c)3 organization. We do provide receipts. We accept cash donations via Paypal or a check/money order that can be mailed to us, as well as, in-kind donations of clothing, non perishable foods/snacks/drinks, office supplies, teaching supplies, hygiene items, make up, school supplies for children. etc.
Which areas do you service?
San Antonio and the surrounding areas.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Ms Sassy Sherry
What are your hours of operation?
10 AM til 10 PM CST
24 Hour Availability for Emergency Situations
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
To not just ask me how they can help, but ACTUALLY helping (volunteering) when they ask.
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
"As Long As You're A Criminal Everybody's Your Enemy" by Robyn Few, Founder of SWOP USA