December 17th, the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, began in 2003 as a memorial to honor the victims of the Green River Killer in Seattle, Washington. Dr. Annie Sprinkle, along with the Sex Workers Outreach Project USA (SWOP), initiated the observance to provide a space for mourning, reflection, and advocacy.
The Green River Killer, Gary Ridgway, was convicted of murdering at least 49 women, many of whom were sex workers. His case highlighted the vulnerabilities sex workers face and the systemic indifference often shown toward their safety. The memorial sparked a broader movement to bring attention to the violence and discrimination endured by sex workers and to advocate for their rights and protections worldwide.
Since its inception, December 17th has grown into a global day of action, uniting sex workers and allies to honor those lost to violence, challenge stigma, and demand systemic change to ensure safety and equality.
As we prepare for this year’s December 17th memorial, we invite you to help us honor and remember the lives of sex workers lost in 2024. If you know of a sex worker who has passed away this year, whether due to violence, systemic neglect, or other circumstances, please share their name with us so we can include them in our ceremony. By remembering their names and stories, we acknowledge their humanity and stand in solidarity with those working to end violence and stigma against sex workers. Submissions can be sent here and you’re welcome to share as much or as little detail as you feel comfortable. Let’s ensure that no one is forgotten.