CYBERSPACE—Sex worker advocates Renee Olstead and Lotus Lain will host an online event on December 17, International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, in support of Chrystul Kizer, an Illinois-based sex trafficking survivor who was jailed after killing her trafficker in self-defense. In addition to time spent with fellow sex workers, attendees will create handmade holiday cards which will be scanned and sent to Kizer.
“We want Chrystul to know that while the justice system may have abandoned her, we haven’t,” Olstead said. “At a time when the threats we face can be overwhelming, this is a chance for us to come together, recharge and make a difference. We’ll be showing up in our coziest PJs to be in community, celebrate the holiday(s), and share an evening with fellow sex workers—all while supporting uplifting sex trafficking survivors.”
Olstead is an advocate for sex workers’ rights, serving as a volunteer and fundraiser for mutual aid organizations, including SWOPLA, Sunday Faire, and Pineapple Support. In 2023 Olstead earned her master’s degree in psychology, as well as the title of Penthouse Pet of the Month for January, where she also has a column.
Lain is a long-time activist for sex worker rights and has served as Industry Advocate for the Free Speech Coalition for more than five years, where she helms the INSPIRE educational program. Throughout her adult career she’s worked as dominatrix, writer, speaker, educator, intimacy coordinator and producer.
The event will take place via Zoom on Dec 17 from 4-6:00 p.m. PT. It is free to attend. Those interested in participating can sign up here or contact [email protected] for event links and information.
