EXXXOTICA Seminar Series

Sex Worker-Led Art Actions: Histories and Intersections with HIV/AIDS & Free Speech

Hosted by N’jaila Rhee

 

In 1979, Carol Leigh coined the term “sex work,” reframing erotic labor as a human rights issue and linking it to the fight against HIV/AIDS. Over time, “sex work” became a key term in HIV prevention and care. This workshop, led by sex workers, honors Leigh’s legacy by exploring the history of her activism and showcasing art as activism. Following our successful 2023 presentation at USCHA, we return with updated art strategies, policy developments, and work on HIV. Participants will also learn about current challenges for sex workers in the U.S. and Carol Leigh’s impact as an ACT UP activist.

 

Key Issues:
Throughout history, sex work has been both honored and criminalized. Carol Leigh’s creation of the term “sex work” was revolutionary, linking erotic labor with workers’ rights. Sex workers have been vital in the global response to HIV, supporting their communities and preventing transmission. Since Carol’s passing in 2022, it’s crucial to preserve her legacy and those of other leaders in this movement, like Gabriela Leite and Sharmus Outlaw.

 

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the term “sex work” and its significance in HIV/AIDS efforts.
  • Learn about key figures like Carol Leigh and their roles in the HIV/AIDS movement.
  • Explore art-based strategies for addressing sex worker rights and HIV/AIDS.
  • Create art and memorials to honor the movement’s legacy.

Methods:
This workshop will include healing strategies, affirmations, and an interactive exercise explaining the term “sex work” and its relevance today. Participants will engage with Carol Leigh’s art—videos and music—and create their own pieces. We will close with a reflection on legacy building and strategizing how to honor those who came before.

 

For the full event schedule, click here

 

EXXXOTICA Seminar Series sponsored by Pro13 by BasisDX.

About the Speaker

N'jaila Rhee

N’jaila Rhee is the Executive Director of the New Jersey Red Umbrella Alliance. She is also a journalist, BBW adult web model, and Phone Sex Operator. She hosts the Cuntcast Podcast and frequently contributes to ADD Space Podcast on the Unreasonable Fridays Network. She has advocated for the human and labor rights of sex workers rights since 2005. She has spoken at AIDS2020, AIDS2024, The United Nations Commission on the Status of Women 2015- 2023, and the US Conference on HIV/AIDS. She strives to make a sex-positive space where people of all races, gender identities, and sexual preferences can have their voices heard. She graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in Journalism and Communication with a minor in African Diaspora Studies.

Dates and locations

  • Edison, NJ
    Oct 25–27, 2024

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