WELLS, Nev.—The owner and operator of Bella’s Hacienda Ranch, a legal brothel in Wells, Nev., seeks to persuade the Wells City Council to no longer use the word “prostitute” on Sheriff’s work cards issued to sex workers. Madam Bella Cummins believes that the term carries a stigma that degrades and disrespects the women working in the brothel. Cummins aims to lobby the city council to replace “prostitute” with the more complimentary designation “courtesan.”
“Derogatory terms like ‘prostitute’ perpetuate social stigmas and stereotypes, leading to further discrimination and marginalization of sex workers,” Cummins said. “It’s important that Nevadans understand and appreciate the impact of the words we use to describe the workers in our communities. Derogatory terms can contribute to a hostile environment toward women, undermine their inherent dignity and hinder social progress. By avoiding derogatory terms and using respectful language when classifying female workers, we promote inclusivity, foster understanding, and contribute to a more compassionate and equitable society.”
“I’m asking to address the Wells City Council and implore the council to officially change the work card designation to ‘courtesan,’ a term that aptly describes the services provided by brothel workers, but without the negative connotations associated with the current classification.”
Cummins believes her advocacy is part of a larger movement throughout Nevada to address the way legal language has often demeaned the state’s licensed sex workers, noting that other Nevada counties have seen success with similar efforts to change brothel work card titles.
“In recent years, Nye County has officially reclassified sex workers in the county as ‘courtesans’ on their Sherrif’s work cards,” Cummins said. “If advocates remain diligent, other jurisdictions will follow. One day very soon, I’m hopeful no documentation disparaging women will be permitted anywhere in Nevada.”
Madam Bella Cummins is the owner and operator of Bella’s Hacienda Ranch. Founded in 1950, the brothel provides a safe and lawful option for sex workers to prosperously practice their trade. Serving customers from across the globe, Bella’s offers a myriad of exclusive amenities, including VIP accommodations and a selection of ornately designed erotic specialty rooms.
Madam Bella founded the Onesta Foundation, a non-profit organization with a mission to support Nevada sex workers and advocate for prostitution legalization throughout the United States.
