Groundbreaking Bid to Unionize by Nevada's Sex Workers
In Nevada, a group of sex workers are set on a mission to make history. Their goal is to become the first in the country to form a union. The idea is simple: they want to work in a safe and respectful environment just like any other worker. This desire has led them to take action in one of the state's longest-running brothels.
Where It's Legal
Nevada is unique in that it's the only state where the sale of sex services is legal. However, it's restricted to licensed brothels in ten out of the state's seventeen counties. Las Vegas, the state's most populous city, is not included in these counties, though the brothel in question is just a short drive away.
Taking Action
Most of the brothel's 74 workers have submitted a petition to the National Labor Relations Board. They've chosen to represent themselves under the name United Brothel Workers and have partnered with the Communications Workers of America for representation. Their motivation? A new contract issued in December that could potentially allow the brothel to use their images without consent, even after they've ceased employment.
Sex Work and Workers' Rights
The rights of sex workers around the world are often overlooked and misunderstood. The topic is controversial, and legalization varies by country. In Spain, for instance, a sex workers' union was approved by the government in 2018, only to be promptly banned by the courts. Despite the challenges, these workers continue to fight for their rights to organize.
Support and Obstacles
The brothel's management has stated that they respect the workers' right to voice their views regarding the structure of their workplace, emphasizing that their main goal is to provide a safe and professionally managed environment. However, the workers feel they are treated as employees: they have set schedules, cannot work remotely, and must abide by a minimum charge rate for their services.
The Contract Controversy
Recent changes in the workers' contracts have caused concerns among the group. The new terms grant the brothel control over the workers' intellectual property and power of attorney. This could potentially make it more difficult for the workers to leave the sex industry and pursue other opportunities.
When these concerns were raised with management, the workers were told they could either sign the new contract or leave. Some workers signed under duress while others requested more time to make their decision. The disagreement is still ongoing.
Facing Consequences
Three workers lost their jobs after management became aware of the unionization effort. The Communications Workers of America is currently fighting for their reinstatement. Sex workers are typically classified as independent contractors, which grants them certain freedoms but limits their protections under labor laws. The outcome of this dispute could hinge on whether they are deemed independent contractors or employees.
The Workers' Vision
Many of the workers create their own online content and want their intellectual property rights protected. They also want to negotiate over their dress code and advocate for a fairer wage contract. Some of them even dream of securing health insurance, which they are currently not provided.
Significance of Their Effort
This bold move by the sex workers is a significant step in an industry often shrouded in stigma. Traditionally, workers in this field have preferred to keep a low profile, but this group's brave effort to stand up for their rights may inspire others to follow suit.