Prostitution, Alternatives, Counselling & Education Society

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: December 16, 2008

Sex Worker Human Rights Denied

PACE Society is incredibly saddened and disappointed by a decision of a BC Supreme Court judge who ruled that a group of sex workers from the Downtown Eastside will not be permitted to challenge the constitutionality of laws which criminalize them.

Justice Ehrcke determined that only a currently working sex worker can challenge these laws and rejected the argument that the risk of further stigmatization and public humiliation prevents active sex workers from participating in this process.

Sheri Kiselbach, Violence Prevention Coordinator at PACE Society and plaintiff in this case, had this to say about the ruling: “It is ridiculous that 30 years of experience in sex work, including criminal convictions, is not enough to give me the right to challenge the prostitution laws. I have the safety and support to do it now, but it would have been impossible for me while working in the trade.”

“Our members face violence and social stigma every day and I firmly believe that decriminalization is an incredibly necessary first step in ensuring that sex workers enjoy the same rights as all other Canadian citizens including the right to security of the person.” said Kerry Porth, Agency Coordinator. “The fight is not over. We will honour our sisters and brothers in the sex trade who have lost their lives this Wednesday, International End Violence Against Sex Workers Day, and will continue to work towards decriminalization”.

PACE Society is extremely grateful for the tireless efforts of the Pivot legal team.

By, with, and for sex workers – PACE Society promotes safer working conditions by reducing harm and isolation through education and support.

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For more information please contact

Katrina Pacey Sheri Kiselbach

Barrister & Solicitor Violence Prevention Coordinator, PACE Society

Pivot Legal LLP Plaintiff

Cell: 604-729-7849 604-872-7651