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Centre for Feminist Research

Candlelight Vigil for the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers

Date: Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Time: 12:00–12:30 PM EST
Location: Online (via Zoom)
Link: https://yorku.zoom.us/j/93078928779?pwd=r2b6F3nGKzYWyC0mATsUjsIWLVYzia.1

Please join us for a Candlelight Vigil in recognition of the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers — a day of remembrance, resistance, and collective care.

First observed in 2003, this day was founded by Annie Sprinkle and Robyn Few, founder of the Sex Workers Outreach Project–USA (SWOP-USA). What began as a memorial for the victims of the Green River Killer has grown into an international movement. Each year, communities around the world gather to honour the lives of sex workers lost to violence and to stand against the stigma, discrimination, and criminalization that enable such harm.

The red umbrella was first carried by sex workers in Venice in 2001 and later adopted by the International Committee on the Rights of Sex Workers in Europe, and has become a global symbol of resistance and solidarity.

Our short virtual gathering will include:

  • A land acknowledgement
  • A candle-lighting ceremony in memory of those lost and those most impacted by violence against sex workers
  • Two minutes of silence
  • An open conversation for attendees to share announcements about December 17th events, or to reflect on current issues affecting sex workers’ rights and safety

This event is hosted by the Critical Trafficking and Sex Work Studies Research Cluster at York University. All are welcome to join in remembrance and solidarity.