Created in December 2001, the Sex Workers Project is the first program in New York City and in the country to focus on the provision of legal services, legal training, documentation, and policy advocacy for sex workers. Using a harm reduction and human rights model, the SWP protects the rights and safety of sex workers who by choice, circumstance, or coercion remain in the industry.
The SWP provides critical information to policymakers, activists, and the media on the human rights abuses faced by sex workers and those who are at risk for engaging in sex work. We use documentation-based advocacy, policy analysis, training and education, and collaboration with community-based service providers to advance practical, long-term solutions to the problems faced by this vulnerable and marginalized population. We document the lives of sex workers and put a human face on violations of their human rights.
The SWP works to ensure that the criminal justice system appropriately responds to the needs of sex workers; that victims of trafficking in persons have access to legal and other benefits; and that community-based service providers who work with sex workers have the expertise to assist them. The SWP works in the following areas: criminal justice reform; trafficking in persons; and human rights documentation.
To learn how to access our services, visit our Get Help link. For additional information, please visit www.sexworkersproject.org and contact us at: swp@urbanjustice.org. For media inquiries, please contact Sienna Baskin at (646) 602-5695. For an appointment or further questions, please call our warmline at (646) 602-5617.
News and Events
New York Law Journal – Prostitution Conviction Is Vacated Under New Law
The New York Law Journal profiled a recent victory by the Sex Workers Project. In August, the Sex Workers Project co-authored bill, authorized the vacatur of a conviction for a prostitution-related offense if it "was a result of having been a victim of sex trafficking," became law in New York State. In April, Melissa Broudo, SWP staff attorney, won the first motion under this new law. Criminal Court Judge Toko Serita granted the motion to vacate two violations and four misdemeanor convictions on behalf of an SWP client. After the ruling, the client stated "This opportunity has opened many doors for me. I am able to be with my family, to work, and to be a productive member of society now. I would like to thank the Urban Justice Center and my lawyer for taking me to court to make my life better."
Most Recent Press
"Portrait of a Prostitute,"
New York Times,
January 9, 2012
Letter to the Editor by Sienna Baskin, Co-Director of the Sex Workers Project
"Condoms as evidence: a discriminatory practice and contradictory policy in NYC,"
Columbia University Institute of Human Rights,
November 24, 2011
"Sex Trafficking Victims Get Care from NYC Prosecutors,"
NBC New York,
November 24, 2011
