Category Archives: Uncategorized

Where to dish with us next!

No War but Class War, fuck these borders, and Decrim yesterday! Say it again and again and again! We know things are feeling even scarier these days, but we’re so glad to have you in solidarity with us, dear comrades. Thank you for being here, thank you for whatever you’re doing to push back, makeContinue reading “Where to dish with us next!”

Anarchist Bookfair Recap & Support Group announcement!

The 2026 Austin Anarchist Bookfair fostered valuable connections among activists and local groups, despite not reaching fundraising goals. Attendees engaged in discussions on harm reduction, sex work destigmatization, and mutual aid. How can you support? Start reading groups, engage with harm reduction organizations, and participate in fundraising efforts for our marginalized communities.

Spring Happenings

The content expresses solidarity with siblings fighting for justice and survival, emphasizing the importance of connection and support among marginalized communities, especially sex workers and survivors of gender-based violence. It highlights upcoming events in Austin, Chicago, and NYC, including tabling opportunities at various fairs and celebrations to support community needs and mutual aid funds. The piece also reflects on a decade of activism through Survived and Punished, advocating for the abolition of gender violence and rejection of criminalization as a solution to societal issues.

Ready Hearts Melt ICE

Dearest comrades, we’ve collectively vacillated between despondent grief and emboldened love in the past weeks. Grief for all of the neighbors, friends, loved ones– incarcerated or otherwise–living, surviving, working in fear; and of course for those ripped from our world by the unnatural and inhuman fascist forces that are CBP, ICE, DHS and all policeContinue reading “Ready Hearts Melt ICE”

IDEVASW 2025 Reflections

The recent observance of the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers highlighted the collective grief and solidarity among sex workers worldwide. Participants commemorated those lost to violence, emphasizing the systemic injustices they face, often exacerbated by the state. The event served as both a mourning and a recommitment to advocacy for a more accepting and protective environment for sex workers. Local gatherings facilitated connection and solidarity, and further events are planned to continue support and engagement within the community.

Fall & Winter Bulletin

The content expresses solidarity and support among comrades while highlighting recent activities and events organized by the group. They are fundraising for their comrade Cam and emphasize the importance of survivor defense campaigns in abolitionist feminist organizing through Alisha’s experiences. Various comrades attended key events focused on community empowerment, including participatory fairs for artists with mental health challenges and national conferences discussing activism and identity. Upcoming events include author talks and protest vigils in different cities. The text underscores the necessity of collectively navigating struggles and urges support for their initiatives and camaraderie.

August News from your Friendly Neighborhood Sex Workers

The post reflects on a busy summer for the crew in various cities, highlighting fundraising efforts for affected sex workers, the search for missing comrade Nona, and community gatherings. Future projects include establishing a Chicago Whores Caucus and support for sex-working parents. The importance of community connection and addressing stress is emphasized throughout.

Summer Reflections & Asks

This summer, we launched a relief fund for sex workers affected by Texas floods and participated in zine fests in Chicago, distributing vital supplies. We’re urgently searching for our missing comrade, Nona. New projects include support for sex worker parents and the formation of a Chicago Whores Caucus to enhance solidarity and organizing efforts.

Whores’ Day & Summer Horizons

Yesterday marked the 50th anniversary of the Church of St. Nizier occupation in Lyon, where marginalized sex workers demanded justice and safety. Initiating International Whores’ Day, the event influenced public narratives and reduced violence. Celebrations in Chicago and Austin emphasize community support and mutual aid, while NYC advocates for decriminalization laws to protect sex workers.

Whores Day 2025 & More!

The post emphasizes the importance of community and organization for survival during challenging times, particularly for marginalized groups like sex workers. It highlights various initiatives supporting political prisoners, storytelling projects, a new boutique for sex workers, and upcoming community events focused on mutual aid and empowerment.

Remembering & Uplifting Beloved LaJuana Lampkins: Her Life, Art, and Struggle

LaJuana Lampkins, a beloved Chicago artist and activist, passed away on February 26, 2025. Known for her fierce friendship, art, and advocacy against police brutality, she touched many lives. Her son, Sir Gerald, seeks support for her memorial service while honoring her legacy of creativity, love, and justice.

Spring Updates!

On March 3rd, Austin activists celebrated International Sex Workers Rights Day by creating zines at Monkeywrench Books, discussing projects like Holy Heaux memoirs and Cecilia’s Act. Meanwhile, Decrim NY advocated for Cecilia’s Act at the NYS Capitol to decriminalize sex work, while Chicago’s Free All Dykes organized a letter writing event for incarcerated comrades.

#FreeAllDykes Updates

The global climate is increasingly dire, with Medicaid under siege and threats impacting marginalized communities. Two activists, René and Ángel, are facing severe challenges after the 2020 uprising. René seeks community support as they navigate financial distress post-incarceration, while Ángel, an undocumented immigrant, faces imminent deportation and concerns for her safety in prison. Solidarity and support are vital.

Reflecting on IDEVASW & How we skill up for what’s ahead

In recent weeks, the community gathered to mourn and rage against systemic violence on December 17th, honoring those lost due to oppression faced daily by sex workers. Despite grief, there is a strong sense of love and commitment to continue fighting for the living. Plans for skill-building and mutual aid emphasize ongoing support and activism.

San Antonio en la lucha!

The Texas crew participated in their first San Antonio Zine Fest, engaging with the community and promoting queer and BIPOC media. They shared free resources, connected with various activist groups, and bonded with fellow zinesters. Future events include initiatives in Chicago, focusing on the rights and safety of marginalized communities. The team’s experience highlighted the importance of collaboration and networking among radicals.

Heart Eyes for Houston!

On November 16th, we participated in Zine Fest Houston, celebrating the vibrant DIY community and connecting with comrades from various cities. We exceeded our fundraising goal and launched our new zine addressing whorephobia. We distributed harm reduction materials and engaged in discussions on crucial topics like abortion access. While our collective isn’t recruiting, we encourage community involvement through reading groups, harm reduction work, and supporting marginalized workers. Join us at upcoming events in San Antonio and Chicago.

Lone Star Zine Fest Recap & Where to support us next!

The weekend of October 19th and 20th featured a vibrant zine gathering, where many friends and new connections were made. The collective zine “Free All Dykes” raised funds for a comrade’s urgent needs. While their fundraising goal wasn’t fully met, appreciation was expressed to supporters. Upcoming events include Zine Fest Houston on November 16th and ongoing campaigns supporting various causes in NYC and Chicago.

New York Queer Zine Fair Recap!

The 10th NYQZF was successfully held in the West Village on September 21st, organized by Paul Moreno and Kel Karpinski. Attendees engaged in zine creation, learned about supporting incarcerated queer and trans sex workers, and participated in workshops. Despite not meeting fundraising goals, the community spirit was strong, highlighted by the debut of the Support Ho(s)e YEAR EIGHT zine, marking nearly a decade of organizing.

Restitution Fundraiser & Birthday Wishes for Ángel!

Rene and Cody are seeking employment after being freed but are burdened with restitution fees. They seek donations through a GoFundMe page. Rene, a journalist and activist, faces financial struggles and the threat of re-imprisonment due to restitution payments. Their partner, Ángel, is in prison and facing deportation. Despite these challenges, they remain committed to activism. Support for co-defendant MJ can be extended through CashApp donations to $JohnLungaho.

Rene Records #12

Rene, a queer Korean journalist, sex worker, and political prisoner, is currently incarcerated in a federal prison in Alabama. She is fundraising for her commissary and to support a reading group for political prisoners. A close friend, Grandma Peggy, who has leukemia, needs surgery. Despite not being religious, Rene is praying for her and asking others to do the same.

Rene Records #11

Rene, a currently incarcerated political prisoner in Alabama, shares insights into the vibrant but resourceful LGBTQ+ culture within women’s prisons. The lack of traditional means of self-expression prompts creative methods of flaunting identities. Rene also sheds light on the stark differences between LGBTQ+ dynamics in men’s versus women’s prisons. LGBTQ+ art and identity are prevalent despite the limitations.

Rene Records #10

Rene, a political prisoner at Alabama’s federal prison, is seeking support for a commissary fundraiser. She shares alarming accounts of medical neglect and mistreatment within the prison, highlighting the death of Hazel McGary and the fear prisoners face in seeking medical help. Rene advocates for harm reduction and basic human rights in prison healthcare.

Rene Records #9

Rene, a political prisoner in Alabama, shares concerns about a potential COVID outbreak at the nearby FCI and the risk of transmission to her minimum-security prison camp due to shared staff. She questions the lack of precautions, suspecting political influences on the officers’ behavior. Fundraising details are also provided.

Rene Records #8

Rene, an incarcerated political prisoner at an Alabama federal prison, seeks support for her commissary fundraiser and reading group. The book club, based at Aliceville Prison Camp, recently discussed “Two or Three Things I Know for Sure” and plans to read “Bastard Out of Carolina” and “Corrections in Ink.” Rene, a queer Korean journalist and sex worker, can be supported through various platforms.

Rene Records #7

Rene, an incarcerated journalist and political prisoner, shares her perspective on the dehumanizing nature of prison labels and her longing for freedom. She dreams of diverse experiences, from activism to love and motherhood, emphasizing the humanity within prisons. Her desire for messy, imperfect freedom reflects the multifaceted nature of those behind bars.

Rene Records #6

This is a guest blog post by Rene, an incarcerated political prisoner in Alabama, sharing her experience in prison. She details the physical and emotional toll, as well as the resilience and resourcefulness of women in prison. She emphasizes their strength and the support needed for her and fellow political prisoners.

Rene Records #5

Rene, a political prisoner, reflects on her time in federal prison, describing the intense challenges and the flawed systems within the facility. Despite an impending release to a halfway house, she remains wary of ongoing probation and societal stigma as a felon. She sheds light on the institutional shortcomings that perpetuate oppression and inequality, emphasizing the need for systemic change.

Rene Records #4

Rene, a queer Korean journalist, sex worker, and political prisoner currently incarcerated in a federal prison in Alabama, is seeking support for her commissary fundraiser. You can also back her writing and support her co-defendants. She has contributed to publications such as Autostraddle, Truthout, and ThoughtCatalog.

Rene Records #3

Rene, a queer Korean journalist and political prisoner in Alabama, organizes a book club and fundraising efforts to support her reading group and fellow prisoners. Despite minimal support from staff, the club is a source of fulfillment and support for Rene and her friends. They are currently reading books by authors such as Dorothy Allison, Celeste Ng, and Octavia Butler.

Rene Records #2

Rene, an incarcerated political prisoner, shares her experiences from federal prison where she encounters fellow inmates with unjustly long sentences and discriminatory treatment. She emphasizes the need for complete decriminalization of drugs and sex work, while advocating for a world free from exploitation and oppression. Rene’s powerful narrative challenges misconceptions and calls for abolition of capitalism and oppressive systems.

Debuting “Rene Records”!

“Rene Records” is a series sharing writings & updates from Rene, incarcerated journalist and activist. She details creative solutions in prison, such as makeshift workout equipment and household items. Rene’s reading group explores powerful works like ‘We Do This ‘Til We Free Us’ and plans to read nonfiction next. Support Rene’s journalism and comrades.

ComstockCon Recap!

ComstockCon brought together organizers, historians, attorneys, journalists, artists, writers, and others to trace the connections between the political context in which the Comstock Act was passed and how it constrains our present. Held at Harvard Law (located on the traditional and ancestral land of the Massachusett peoples) on May 14th, ComstockCon was a convening inspired byContinue reading “ComstockCon Recap!”

Funeral & Family Support Funds Needed

Dearest comrades, // CW for mentions of death of a community member below // Alisha’s beloved (step) father passed very unexpectedly. We are writing to ask if y’all could please share and give so that Alisha and her loved ones have the financial support they urgently need. Derrick was a kind, gentle and extremely supportiveContinue reading “Funeral & Family Support Funds Needed”

New article from our comrades Alisha and Red for International Whore’s Day 2021

Something Red and Alisha have been working on for quite some time about the violence of prison technology and the importance of inside/outside communication, is finally debuting today in honor of International Whore’s Day! Please read and share, “Care and Connection as Resistance to State Violence and Surveillance” with your communities! Many thanks to Hacking//HustlingContinue reading “New article from our comrades Alisha and Red for International Whore’s Day 2021”

Virtual poetry workshops that benefit Alisha’s coming home fund!

Our comrade Donna has created MORE beautiful virtual writing spaces to help continue raising funds for Alisha’s post-release and welcome home needs! Check out the latest series of event we’re debuting: tinyurl.com/Poems4Hos and register soon! Spaces will fill up!

RED CANARY SONG RESPONSE TO SHOOTINGS AT GOLD MASSAGE SPA, YOUNG’S ASIAN MASSAGE & AROMA THERAPY SPA

From the Red Canary Song solidarity + response statement: “Decriminalization of sex work is the only way that sex workers, massage workers, sex trafficking survivors, and anyone criminalized for their survival and/or livelihood will ever be safe.” We’ve signed on in support. Read the full statement here, listen to and act on its demands: ****Continue reading “RED CANARY SONG RESPONSE TO SHOOTINGS AT GOLD MASSAGE SPA, YOUNG’S ASIAN MASSAGE & AROMA THERAPY SPA”

March 8th: International Working Women + Femmes Day!

From our dear comrade Caty Simon of Whose Corner Is It Anyway: This International Women’s Day, please donate to the 150 + low-income sex working, drug-using, housing insecure, Boricua, Dominican, Black, Native, and white cis and trans women of Whose Corner and all our organizing and mutual aid on each other’s behalf. Please help WhoseContinue reading “March 8th: International Working Women + Femmes Day!”

Commemorating International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers with Art + Poetry

December 17th is International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. On this day, and always, we honor the memories and lives of those taken from our community and recommit ourselves to solidarity–to the struggle to decriminalize + destigmatize our work and demand an end to criminalization. This is a day to demand the endContinue reading “Commemorating International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers with Art + Poetry”

Free Chrystul Kizer Updates

From one of our comrades with Free Chrystul Kizer Yesterday Chrystul’s request for a reduced bail was DENIED by the judge. Graveley used yesterday’s hearing as a way to deny Chrysul’s survivorhood as a survivor of sexual exploitation, to deny risks she faced/s to the coronavirus in pre-trial jail & deny Chrystul’s right to self-defense. WEContinue reading “Free Chrystul Kizer Updates”

We Supported Sex Worker Brilliance in 2019

So thankful for the support and resourcing that Third Wave Fund unapologetically gives to sex worker organizing! Eternally grateful for the care and labor of everyone involved in the Sex Worker Giving Circle. Support them here, so they can continue to fund our movements: https://thirdwavefund.giv.sh/96cd 🌹 Grantees Announcement! We’ve committed over $800,000 to sex worker-led groups in justContinue reading “We Supported Sex Worker Brilliance in 2019”

TODAY last day of the NY legislature!

Help Decrim NY get rid of the racist and trasphobic “walking while trans” ban (by passing S2253) and expand relief for survivors of trafficking (by passing S4981a)! Police perpetrate the most violence against folx in the sex trades–help shut that down by supporting DECRIM! Take 2 Minutes to CALL Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins 518-455-2585 and citeContinue reading “TODAY last day of the NY legislature!”

Protect Trans Community: Make 2 Calls Today

Today Decrim NY is doing a call storm to urge state legislative leadership to pass our two bills (repeal the “walking while trans” ban and expand criminal record relief for trafficking survivors) before the end of the session. The loitering repeal bill has passed out of committee in the Assembly, while the record relief bill has passedContinue reading “Protect Trans Community: Make 2 Calls Today”

Today is International Sex Workers’ Rights Day!

We’re celebrating by taking action with Decrim NY to remove harmful loitering statutes in New York State. On Tuesday, March 5th, a bill to repeal loitering for the purposes of prostitution is set to go through its first vote in the Assembly Codes committee. This statute is used by police to criminalized Black + brownContinue reading “Today is International Sex Workers’ Rights Day!”

“We Won Clemency for Cyntoia Brown—Now Let’s Free all Survivors”

In sev­en months, Cyn­toia Brown will be released from prison, hav­ing been grant­ed a full com­mu­ta­tion to parole by exit­ing Ten­nessee Gov­er­nor Bill Haslam. Cyn­toia has already served 15 years of a life sen­tence. When she was a teenag­er, Cyn­toia expe­ri­enced con­tin­u­al vio­lence and was engaged in sur­vival work. At the age of 16, she shot John­ny Allen, a 43-year-old client who sheContinue reading ““We Won Clemency for Cyntoia Brown—Now Let’s Free all Survivors””

“‘Prostitution-Related’ Loitering Ordinance Promotes Racial Profiling in Chicago”

In an ill-advised move last month, the Chicago City Council passed an ordinance that makes “prostitution-related loitering” a prosecutable offense defined as “remaining in any one place under circumstances that would warrant a reasonable person to believe that the purpose or effect of that behavior is to facilitate prostitution.” The language of the new statuteContinue reading ““‘Prostitution-Related’ Loitering Ordinance Promotes Racial Profiling in Chicago””

Love & Solidarity

We want to give a special shout out to Mariame Kaba of Survived and Punished, Project NIA, Chicago Taskforce on Violence Against Girls & Young Women. Her latest walking tour, “Slavery & Resistance in NYC,” explored historically relevent sites across lower Manhattan. It was graciously offered in solidarity with #InternationalWhoresDay direct actions. From the walking tour’s description: “This walking tour will discussContinue reading “Love & Solidarity”

“NOT A CARDBOARD CUTOUT: CYNTOIA BROWN AND THE FRAMING OF A VICTIM”

The evening of August 6th, 2004, 16-year old Cyntoia Brown shot and killed Johnny Allen, a 43-year-old Nashville resident who picked her up for sex. It was an act of self defense, she explained to police later; after Allen took her to his house, he showed Cyntoia multiple guns, including shotguns and rifles. Later inContinue reading ““NOT A CARDBOARD CUTOUT: CYNTOIA BROWN AND THE FRAMING OF A VICTIM””

Parsing a Miserable But All-Too-Typical Article Concerning Sex Work Which Ostensibly is Not Attempting To Be Whorephobic But In Fact Is

What follows, in un-bolded text, is an article from a major city news source in New Orleans, written without any particularly vested perspective on the matters discussed.  What we’ll quickly discover is an under-researched, uncritical rehearsal of law enforcement diatribe and baseless putting words in the mouths of those whom they purport to serve andContinue reading “Parsing a Miserable But All-Too-Typical Article Concerning Sex Work Which Ostensibly is Not Attempting To Be Whorephobic But In Fact Is”