Empowering Toronto Sex Workers: Self-Defence Classes Foster Safety, Confidence, and Community

Introduction: In response to a concerning rise in reports of harassment and violence, self-defence classes have emerged as a vital initiative for sex workers in Toronto. These classes, held at a local boxing gym, provide a safe environment for individuals to punch, jump, duck, and laugh while equipping themselves with essential self-defence skills. Led by Maggie's Toronto Sex Workers Action Project, this empowering program aims to enhance personal safety, boost confidence, and foster a supportive community. With a focus on addressing the challenges faced by sex workers, these classes have garnered significant attention and support.

Ensuring Safety and Preparedness: Selene, a sex worker who recognizes the importance of prioritizing safety, underscores the necessity of being prepared. While hoping to avoid any dangerous situations, she understands the significance of being equipped with self-defence skills. The interviewees in this article, who have chosen to remain anonymous, applaud the classes organized by Maggie's Toronto Sex Workers Action Project. The surge in demand for these self-defence classes clearly demonstrates the urgent need to address the rising incidents of violence and harassment within the sex work community.

Addressing a Critical Need: Ellie Ade Kur, the executive director of Maggie's, highlights the fact that the call for self-defence classes originated directly from sex workers themselves. The program aims to empower sex workers who often face direct violence and encounter barriers when attempting to report such incidents or have their claims taken seriously. To make these classes a reality, Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment awarded a generous $50,000 grant to Maggie's, enabling them to partner with local boxing coach Frederic Montaricout. The overwhelming response to the program, with all 30 spots filled within 24 hours and an additional 50 individuals on the waitlist within a week, attests to the immense demand and enthusiasm within the sex work community.

Positive Transformations: Since its launch in March, the self-defence classes have produced remarkable progress. Participants have experienced notable transformations, both physically and mentally, according to Montaricout. For instance, Alexia Woodroe emphasizes how the classes have significantly boosted her confidence, not only in her physical abilities but also in how she carries herself. Woodroe appreciates having some knowledge of self-defence techniques, which provides her with a sense of security and the ability to respond effectively if faced with a threatening situation. Another participant, Alexandra Starr, recounts a harrowing incident she endured two years ago when she was assaulted by a client. Motivated by this traumatic experience, Starr has implemented stringent security measures and client screening procedures. The opportunity to learn specific self-defence skills through Maggie's classes was a compelling reason for Starr to participate, not only for personal safety but also for the chance to connect with others in the industry.

Building Community and Strength: The isolation experienced by sex workers can be profound, preventing them from easily sharing their struggles with the general public. Starr notes that the camaraderie and shared experiences among the participants in the self-defence classes create a sense of solidarity and empowerment. This feeling of strength in numbers is invaluable to sex workers, who often face unique challenges and societal stigma. Ade Kur, recognizing the importance of these social connections, views the program's success as encompassing not only the acquisition of self-defence skills but also the establishment of a supportive community.

Continuing the Movement: Although the classes for this particular cohort are scheduled to conclude at the end of June, Ade Kur remains committed to expanding the program in the future, contingent upon securing additional funding. She acknowledges the distressing reality of violence and discrimination faced by sex workers due to criminalization and stigma. Nonetheless, she draws attention to the efforts of organizations like Maggie's, which work diligently to address these issues, build a sense of community, and effect positive change, even in the absence of comprehensive policy reforms. Ade Kur emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting initiatives that directly combat the challenges sex workers encounter.