Values and Philosophy

Evidence based and sex worker centered

This project is grounded in evidence-based research and the lived experiences, needs, and asks of sex workers in the Lower Mainland

Rights-based approach

The work of the VSWCA is done from a rights-based approach and the understanding that marginalization interferes with people’s access to health care and other important human rights. We recognize that every person has a right to health care and a safe community.

Broad understanding of health and wellbeing

This project uses the social determinants of health as a foundation and understands that the health and well-being of sex workers is more than making it through the door. Health inequalities are negative impacts on population health that are both “unfair” and “avoidable”.

Innovation

This curriculum aims to instigate change and buy-in from health providers themselves in both their own behaviour and expectations. This curriculum will pay particular attention to the experiences and needs of sex workers who are racialized, queer, and otherwise facing the most barriers to accessible health care.

Sex work is work

The VSWCA respects sex worker’s agency, resilience, and choices. We recognise that sex work is work and this project is not about ending sex work or promoting exit strategies. Sex work support organizations support all sex worker’s choices (including the decision to exit), calling for the abolition of sex work is not what sex workers are asking of us.

Harm reduction

This project is grounded in a philosophy of harm reduction, which is invested in limiting the negative consequences for the circumstances in which people find themselves, meeting people where they are at, providing non-judgmental and person-centred services, and recognizing people’s right to health and safety in all situations.