Prostitution is a Dangerous Line of Work
Mon., March 14
From: Elliott Gordon Youden, Ottawa
Dear Mr. Marc-Olivier Girard and committee members,
This letter is intended to add insight into the deliberations of the sub-committee on solicitation laws especially in regards to sex workers.
As you maybe aware, the Liberal Party of Canada at its recent March 2005 Biennial convention overwhelmingly adopted policy intended to review and update section 213 of the criminal code. This policy was authored by young Liberals with the intention of creating safe havens for sex trade workers.
The purpose of these havens, often referred to in the vernacular as "Red Light Districts," would be to ensure the safety of those involved in the industry.
One cannot deny that prostitution is a dangerous line of work, but to deny protection under the law for those who choose to participate is not only wrong but contrary to the rule of law established in Canada. Prostitution is legal in Canada; however, we fail to protect our citizens from its dangers. Labour laws are applicable in all other professions except prostitution because section 213 hampers the equal application of the law.
Prostitutes, who are often mistreated and harassed by police forces simply because they are attempting to make a living, are unwilling and ill-equipped to stand up against this injustice. Therefore, we ought to be the voice for those among who are unable to speak. If the law is not applicable or functioning for a minority of its citizens it is a grave injustice to all Canadians.
International Women's Day was recently celebrated on March 8, 2005 and all political parties in the Commons saluted women for their role and contribution to society. They also wished women further success in the fight for equality. In doing so, one would hope they would realize that a lot of prostitutes are women. They are without protection under the law; they are facing discrimination, inequality and prejudice; and they deserve better treatment. During the reporting stage of the committee one would hope this would be taken under consideration. Women's rights are human rights. If we value the Charter of Rights and Freedoms then we should validate it in its application to women and prostitutes.
Many Members of Parliament may call into question the morality of the profession. I would urge them to refrain from doing so in the context of the religious right's crusade to regress the Canadian society. The only moral contention considerable is what exactly is holding us back from extending equal rights and treatment to all our citizens. We realize that prostitution is stigmatized; nevertheless, we cannot allow our own sense of prejudice to guide this issue or to further delay justice.
I would welcome copies of your committees‚ interim and final reports. I would also ask for an expedient response from the committee addressing my concerns. Members who would like to contact me may do so at the electronic address provided. I look forward to seeing legislation passed that will effect positive social change.