Shift Program

Shift continues to be open every Thursday night until 8pm for appointments or drop in. All regular daytime services will be available during this evening time. As well, evening appointments outside of Thursday nights can be scheduled in advance. Our regular daytime hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30am-12:30pm/1:30pm-4:30pm Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to hearing from you! Shift (403) 237-8171 [email protected]

[SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][COLOR=#444444]This weekâ??s blog is about a rights based approach to sex work support services! What are your thoughts? Check it out at[/COLOR] [url]www.shiftcalgary.blogspot.com/[/url][COLOR=#444444][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=windowtext][B][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/B][/COLOR] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][COLOR=windowtext][B]Shift[/B][/COLOR][B][COLOR=#ff0000] [/COLOR][/B][COLOR=#444444]provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=#444444][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=#444444][SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Shift [/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [COLOR=#444444][EMAIL="[email protected]"][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3][COLOR=#0000ff][email protected][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][/EMAIL][/COLOR] [COLOR=#444444][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3]403.237.8171 [/SIZE][/FONT] [/COLOR]

[FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3]Wow- October will be a busy month! Shiftâ??s October calendar of events is now posted on our website. Check it out at: [/SIZE][/FONT][URL="http://www.shiftcalgary.org/uploads/October_2011_Newsletter.pdf"][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3][COLOR=#800080]http://www.shiftcalgary.org/uploads/October_2011_Newsletter.pdf[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][/URL] [B][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3][COLOR=#ff0000] [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [COLOR=windowtext][B][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3]Shift [/SIZE][/FONT][/B][/COLOR][SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][COLOR=#444444]provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. [/COLOR][COLOR=windowtext][B][/B][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE] [COLOR=windowtext][B][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3]Shift[/SIZE][/FONT][/B][/COLOR][B][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT][/B][COLOR=#444444][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3](403) 237-8171 [/SIZE][/FONT][EMAIL="[email protected]"][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3][COLOR=#0000ff][email protected][/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT][/EMAIL][SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT]

AIDS Calgary/Shift endorses efforts to decriminalize prostitution in Canada for adults engaged in sex work. Check out our position statement: http://www.shiftcalgary.org/Past_Events.html Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. Shift (403) 237-8171 [email protected]

Our calendar of Shift events is posted on our website. Check it out at http://www.shiftcalgary.org/Current_Events.html Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. Shift (403) 237-8171 [email protected]

[FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Shift Engagement Project (SEP) [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]SEP will support the greater involvement of Shift clients in Shift Calgary, offer the opportunity to increase the voice of those involved in sex work, enable Shift clients an opportunity to develop skills and leadership, as well as educate the wider community on issues surrounding sex work. Shift acknowledges that the participation of those directly involved in sex work will help reduce stigma and discrimination associated with sex work, which is a powerful tool for breaking down the barriers of fear and prejudice. We want you to feel engaged in Shift Calgary and have the opportunity to become a leader. [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]What is SEP? [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Through SEP, Shift clients can contribute their time, skills and expertise in one or more of the following position for which they will receive an honorarium.[/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]At this time there are four positions available in which registered Shift clients can apply. [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]* Become a Blog Writer and write an article about personal experiences or current issues related to sex work for the Shift Blog and other agency communications.[/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]* Become a speaker for Shift! Shift speakers will provide the opportunity for past or current sex workers to share their story at educational workshops offered by Shift called Shifting Perspectives or other events. [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]* As a Social Event Planner you will be responsible for creating social events that cater to the interests of other Shift clients.[/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]* International Sex Workersâ?? Rights Day Committee members will be a part of a committee that plans and implements an event for International Sex Workersâ?? Rights Day, held in the month of March. [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]How do you become a Shift client? [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Call or email Shift Calgary to schedule a simple intake. The only eligibility is that you are either currently or have been involved in sex work and reside in Calgary. [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]We'd love to hear from you! [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [COLOR=#3e3e3e][FONT=Times New Roman][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Shift [/FONT][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=#3e3e3e][FONT=Times New Roman] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book](403) 237-8171 [/FONT][EMAIL="[email protected]"][COLOR=#5f63fc][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][email protected][/FONT][/COLOR][/EMAIL][/FONT][/COLOR] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [COLOR=#3e3e3e][FONT=Times New Roman][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. [/FONT] [/FONT][/COLOR]

Our facebook fanpage is a way to know about upcoming events, network and keep connected. â??Likeâ?? us today! [URL]https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Shift-Calgary/94643099222[/URL]

Did you know that Shift has a Drop in space? This is a safe space for clients to use a phone or computer, access the internet, play cards & board games, read the paper & magazines, enjoy coffee & snacks & connect with peers. Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. Shift (403) 237-8171 [email protected]

[SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Shift Calgary is pleased to offer complementary Restorative Yoga! [/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Registration with Shift is required before sign-up. If you are not a registered client and would like to attend, call Janine at 403.508.2500 or email [EMAIL="[email protected]"][email protected][/EMAIL] to book an intake appointment. The intake involves a quick meeting with Janine who can tell you all about Shift. There is NO expectation that clients attend all activities and events â?? program involvement is voluntary![/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Restorative Yoga will be held every Thursday evening 5:30-6:30pm beginning September 8th and ending September 29th, 2011.[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]- Join us for one session or come to all[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]- No previous experience required[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]- No cost[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]- Yoga mats can be provided[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]- Limited space so sign-up is required[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Other benefits for Shift clients include: â??Shift Happensâ? support group, information workshops, social events to build community, volunteer opportunities, other complementary therapies (acupuncture, massage, vitamins), legal support (city of Calgary licences, access to lawyers), etc.[/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. [/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book](403) 237-8171 [/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][email protected][/FONT][/SIZE]

We are now open every Thursday night until 8pm for appointments or drop in. All regular daytime services will be available during this evening time. As well, evening appointments outside of Thursday nights can be scheduled in advance. Our regular daytime hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30am-12:30pm/1:30pm-4:30pm Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift (403) 237-8171 [email protected]

Check out our Shift Blog to find out all the new changes that August will bring our program! http://shiftcalgary.blogspot.com/ Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift (403) 237-8171 [email protected]

[COLOR=#444444][FONT=Times New Roman][I][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3] [COLOR=#444444][FONT=Times New Roman][I]Whatâ??s in our name? [/I][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=#444444][FONT=Times New Roman][I] [/I][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=#444444][FONT=Times New Roman][I]Shift is not an acronym. Shift is named because with the program we wanted to see: - a shift in the quality of life for all people involved in the sex trade - a shift in perceptions about the sex trade- recognizing that sex work is work - a shift in working conditions - a shift in the language used by the community and media when talking about sex work[/I][/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=#444444][FONT=Times New Roman]Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift (403) 237-8171 [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=#444444][FONT=Times New Roman][EMAIL="[email protected]"][COLOR=blue][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][email protected][/FONT][/COLOR][/EMAIL][/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=#444444][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/COLOR] [COLOR=black][FONT=Times New Roman] [/FONT][/COLOR] [FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=#000000] [/COLOR][/FONT] [/SIZE][/FONT][/I][/FONT][/COLOR]

Shift officially began July 10, 2007 and has spent four years providing harm reduction and rights based approach programs and services for adults involved in sex work. Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift 403.237.8171 [email protected]

Shift Phone Line: 403. 237.8171 This phone line is Shift specific for those who might not wish to phone AIDS Calgary directly to get in touch with us. The Shift line is a great way to ask about our programs and services, inquire about sex work in general, book an intake or report a bad date. Shift Email: [EMAIL="[email protected]"][email protected][/EMAIL] Email questions, a bad date report or use as a first point of contact for clients. The Shift email is checked regularly for your convenience. Web-site: [URL="http://www.shiftcalgary.org"]www.shiftcalgary.org[/URL] Shiftâ??s website contains information on sex work, Shift Programs and upcoming events. The web-site also has a link to report bad dates anonymously online. Blog: [URL]http://shiftcalgary.blogspot.com[/URL] Shiftâ??s blog is updated at least twice a month with writings on current issues and topics surrounding sex work. This is a way to increase knowledge of sex work related matters. Twitter: shiftcalgary Twitter is a great way to stay connected with whatâ??s going on. Tweets go out weekly, often focusing on a specific tips and information for those involved in sex work. Facebook: Shift Calgary Our facebook fanpage is a way to know about upcoming events, network and keep connected. Like us today! Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift 403.237.8171

Lots of media coverage around Ontario's Charter challenge which states prostitution laws violate right to safety. Your thoughts? Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift 403.237.8171 [email protected]

Did you know that we provide free male & female condoms, dental dams and lube? You can pick up or we can deliver for groups/agencies. Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift 403.237.8171 [email protected]

Shift has published the June Bad Date Sheet. Check it out at: http://www.shiftcalgary.org/uploads/Bad_Date_Sheet_June_2011.pdf The Calgary Bad Date Sheet so sex workers can share bad experiences and help protect each other. If you are in Calgary, please report any bad dates you have had anonymously and confidentially. You can report online at www.shiftcalgary.org or leave a message on our 24 hour hot-line number: (403) 237- 8171. Staff at Safeworks, Calgary Drop-In Centre, and Shift can also help you to report Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, the sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift 403.237.8171

[SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Todayâ??s blog is about the history of the condom! Check it out at [url]http://shiftcalgary.blogspot.com[/url] [/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to adults involved in, or those who have been involved in, the sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. [/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]I look forward to hearing from you![/FONT][/SIZE] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Shift [/FONT][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]403.237.8171[/FONT][/SIZE]

Shift publishes the Calgary Bad Date Sheet so sex workers can share bad experiences and help protect each other. If you are in Calgary, please report any bad dates you have had anonymously and confidentially. You can report online at www.shiftcalgary.org or leave a message on our 24 hour hot-line number: (403) 237- 8171. Staff at Safeworks, Calgary Drop-In Centre, and Shift can also help you to report. We'll post a link to our newest bad date sheet shortly! Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in, the sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift (403) 237-8171 [email protected]

[COLOR=#444444][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Hey There! Shift is now on Twitter. [/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Twitter is a great way to stay connected with whatâ??s going on. [/FONT][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Tweets go out weekly, often focusing on a specific tips and information for those involved in sex work. Follow us at: Shiftcalgary [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][B][COLOR=#ff0000]Shift[/COLOR][/B][/FONT][COLOR=#444444][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in, the sex work. Our [/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][B][COLOR=#ff0000]program[/COLOR][/B][/FONT][COLOR=#444444][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! [/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][B][COLOR=#ff0000]Shift[/COLOR][/B][/FONT][COLOR=#444444][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] (403) 237-8171 [EMAIL="[email protected]"][COLOR=#0000ff][email protected][/COLOR][/EMAIL][/FONT][/COLOR][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][/FONT]

AIDS Calgary Awareness Association (ACAA) would like to formally announce their support of the decriminalization of prostitution. Check our new position statement out on our website: http://www.shiftcalgary.org/Page_2.html Shift, a program of AIDS Calgary, provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in, the sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift (403) 237-8171 [email protected]

Hey There! Check out our latest Blog Article: http://shiftcalgary.blogspot.com/ Shift provides support, outreach, education, advocacy, referrals, and counseling to individuals involved in, or those who have been involved in, the sex work. Our program is not exit based; therefore exiting is not a requirement to access our services. We recognize that for many, sex work is a choice. Our services are non-judgmental, free to access, and barrier free. If you have any questions, comments or would like more information or services, please feel free to contact us. I look forward to hearing from you! Shift (403) 237-8171 [email protected]

[SIZE=3][I][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]On March 11, 2011, the Calgary Herald published â??[/FONT][/I][B][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Ottawa[/FONT][/B][B][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book] says itâ??s not obligated to protect prostitutesâ?[/FONT][/B][I][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]. In response to this article AIDS Calgary Awareness Association submitted a Letter to the Editor of the Herald, which has been published in todayâ??s paper. Please follow the link to the Shift blog to read the whole article: [URL]http://shiftcalgary.blogspot.com/[/URL][/FONT][/I][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][/FONT][/I][/SIZE] [SIZE=3][I][FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]- Janine[/FONT][/I][/SIZE]

[FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]March 3rd is the International Sex Workersâ?? Rights Day. Shift is marking the day March 4th with a unique event called [I]Out of Sight. [/I]We will be hosting an interactive theater night to generate discussion around rights for those involved in sex work. You are invited to join in the conversation! [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]Friday, March 4, 7pm at the Eau Claire Market Community Space in Calgary, Alberta. [/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book][/FONT] [FONT=Franklin Gothic Book]For more information please email: [EMAIL="[email protected]"][COLOR=#0000ff][email protected][/COLOR][/EMAIL] or phone 403. 237.8171 or see our blog at: [url]http://www.shiftcalgary.blogspot.com/[/url][/FONT] [FONT=Times New Roman][SIZE=3] [/SIZE][/FONT]

December 17th is called Red Umbrella Day: the International Day to End Violence against Sex Workers. The red umbrella, adopted in 2002 by Venetian sex workers, for an anti-violence march, symbolizes resistance against the violence, stigma and discrimination that sex workers face worldwide. The day calls attention to hate crimes, violence and discrimination that sex workers face, and urges the public to respect the basic human rights of sex workers. The Shift Program, of AIDS Calgary Awareness Association wants to call attention to the frequent violence that sex workers face in Calgary, and the fact that men, women, and trans-gendered people working in the sex trade are experiencing levels of violence that has become normalized. Sex workers are afraid to report the violence they experience for fear of prosecution, discrimination, stigmatization and further mistreatment. Being a sex worker does not remove someone?s right to say NO. Violence is still violence. Shift provided a lunch & learn opportunity at the Sheriff King Home & Violence Prevention Centre on December 9th, which brought awareness to the Continuum of Sexual Exchange, the Criminalization of Sex Work, the vulnerabilities and risks that sex workers face, and the climate of sex work in Calgary. Over 30 people attended and interest is being expressed by people looking for ways to commemorate Red Umbrella Day on December 17th. If you would like to show your support ?Shift Your Perception? posters and buttons are available.