[IPSM] self-determination is what we're fighting for

[hhazel at gmail.com]

Hello everyone,
it makes me angry that the IPSM list is being used to disseminate
anti-sex worker propaganda.  The issue some people raise is that sex
work as a profession is oppressive to women because it is seen as
commidifying the female body further and contributing to the violence
of everyday patriarchy.  The extent to which this is true i won't
discuss because i don't feel that it's my place, as a male.  I do
know, however, that patriarchy and sexism are not diminished by the
illegalization of sex work.  When a mostly male parliament signs a
bill that is signed by a man that says that women cannot earn money in
the profession of her choice, i believe it further institutionalizes
male domination, while making the work itself more dangerous.  At the
same time it further entrenches control over all of us by limiting
further the means at our disposal to live a fulfilling life of our
choice.  I have much more to say, but i'll leave it to the pros.  I
would like to thank Sid for reminding us over and over again that hate
and discrimination should not be tolerated and that sex workers are
our friends and allies.  Me, i'll trust a sex worker over some
intellectual any day of the week.

in solidarity,
dan