Hookers Not So Happy In Their Work (Press, 28 January 1989)

Sex Work: Writings by Women in The Sex Industry, edited by Frederique Doiacoste and Priscilla Alexander and published by Virago Press in 1988, presents a comprehensive collection of essays and personal accounts from women involved in the sex trade. Co-editor Priscilla Alexander makes a provocative comparison between prostitution and marriage, suggesting that both were once economic institutions, with the primary difference being the number of partners. The book explores the spectrum of motivations for women entering prostitution, highlighting factors such as poverty, racial discrimination, and abusive pasts, while also acknowledging that some women find empowerment and freedom in their work.

The narratives within the book range from brutally honest to eloquently humorous, offering varied perspectives that expose both the hardships and complexities of being a sex worker. Many women articulate their experiences with intelligence, and some, like a 55-year-old woman, express enjoying a respect and autonomy they lacked in previous relationships. However, the grim realities faced by sex workers, including police violence, exploitation, and systemic neglect, are depicted throughout.

The collection also addresses the tension within feminist groups surrounding the issue of prostitution. Radical feminists often oppose sex work as incompatible with the broader goals of the women’s movement, leading to further division. Despite the differences of opinion, the wealth of research included in the anthology provides significant insights into international policies regarding prostitution, as well as the stigmas and myths surrounding sex workers, such as the association with the spread of AIDS.

Notably, the book discusses various advocacy groups supporting the rights of sex workers, such as COYOTE and the International Committee for Prostitutes’ Rights, among others. These organisations work toward legal protections and societal recognition for workers in the sex industry, challenging the perception that prostitution is entirely a path of victims and emphasizing the agency and negotiations involved in the exchange.

The collection ultimately asserts the importance of recognising sex workers as entitled to the same legal protections from violence and exploitation as any other individual. It argues that society often places moral judgement on these women, while failing to acknowledge the systemic abuses they endure. Through desperate and heart-wrenching testimonies, the contributors reveal that many sex workers are more often the subjects of victimisation rather than the perpetrators of moral failings.

The concluding thoughts of a college-educated woman reflect a hope for a future where societal perceptions around sex, honour, and respect lead to a world devoid of the need for prostitution, envisioning a society that treats everyone with dignity regardless of their occupational choices.

The text on this page is created, in the most part, using Generative AI and so may contain errors or omissions. It is supplied to you without guarantee or warranty of correctness. If you find an error or would like to make a content suggestion please get in contact

The text on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 New Zealand