Inspired by Sex Workers

Day 2: Yoga, Sex Workers, and Indian Celebrations…

“Because of my work, my daughter is getting her Bcomm and my other daughter now works at the bank” – Sex Worker

“Because of the work I do, I was able to provide a computer for my children so they can learn” – Sex Worker

“I hope in my next life, I am as educated as you” - Sex worker

Today, we began our day with an hour of Ashtanga Yoga, or eight-fold path. We then enjoyed a nice mix of Indian and Continental breakfast at the hotel.

Our assignment for today was to prepare a training protocol on reproductive health for commercial sex workers who also work with community based organizations (CBOs) empowering sex workers to better understand their bodies and use protection. Our group of 20 was divided into two groups so we could train two CBO sites. Our group went to the Kranti Mahila Sanstha (KMS) community based organization. We met with approximately a dozen sex workers who were excited to learn from us. We focused mainly on the menstrual cycle, hygiene, menopause, and breast cancer.

I was in awe of how much they understood what we taught them. At the same time, they were eager to listen so they could be assured that what we were teaching them is what they also knew. They needed the assurance. They mimicked our demonstration so they could then later teach their peers.

What I was most amazed by was their curiosity in wanting to know if there were other sex workers in Washington, DC and if these sex workers were also illiterate as them. They wanted to feel that they weren’t alone.

Once the group left – we had to wait for our bus for approximately 20 minutes. During this time we met with three sex workers that were also waiting for a ride. We used this opportunity to learn more from them – how their families felt; how their husbands felt; How much money they make; and if they want to leave the business.

The women shared with us that they met their husbands as clients first. They do have children but have put their children in boarding schools, as they do not want their children to know or understand their line of work. The women want to leave this work for many reasons – violence, drunk men, harassment; however, they receive approximately Rs 15,000 a month which allows them to provide for their families. The conversation was so humble and frank. They were proud of the fact they were able to do so much for their families. Though they wanted to live this line of work, they have learned a lot about society, themselves, and used the opportunity to empower other sex workers to be safe. It was inspiring to watch these women take advantage of an opportunity that many do not. The quotes I mentioned above, are exact quotations from the women we met today. They taught me that no matter the situation, I too should be better about taking the best opportunity I can.

After spending a few hours with them, we went to dinner to have a traditional thali meal. The women in our group loved it. One of the women had turned 21 so we celebrated with a cake (which was actually good) and the Indian version of Happy Birthday. It was the perfect way to end such a fascinating day.

So factual Information about Sex workers:

• The Largest Red Light Districts in India are in Mumbai and Kolkota
• There are many organizations in India that promote sex sexual practices and educate them on HIV and other STI preventions but very limited NGOs that actually help sex workers leave this line of work
• 50% of Sex workers have HIV.