Frisco Sex Worker Seminar Caps Festival

SAN FRANCISCO – Covering subjects from oral technique to effective marketing, last Wednesday’s sex worker “college” was the educational arm of the third biennial San Francisco Sex Worker Film And Arts Festival, concluding May 8.

Organizer and pro-prostitution activist Carol Leigh, also known as Scarlot Harlot, manages Bayswan, the official website of the Bay Area’s Sex Worker Advocacy Network. She said the seminar reflected the maturation of the sex worker cause; in comparatively permissive cities like San Francisco and Portland, Ore., the focus of sex worker advocacy has shifted from decriminalization to job satisfaction.

The seminar drew about 25 students, all of whom claimed sex worker status, whether as prostitutes or dancers. Presenter Kimberlee Kline said, “If we want to be treated as business professionals, we need to act ethically within the industry." Prostitution is only legal in parts of Nevada, and instructors repeated that they could not advise any attendees on how to break the law.

Following the day-long class, students received a Graduate of Sex Work certificate, having discussed stress reduction on the job, legal issues and defensive techniques.

"Prostitution is work," Leigh said, stressing the differences in income, focus and choice in the industry. "The most important thing is that we are diverse. Some are on the streets and in a very desperate situation. Others are in a working-class situation and maybe bored in their jobs. And others see sex work as their calling."

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Siri Dahl and Friends to Host 2nd 'Corn Telethon'

Siri Dahl will host the second 12-hour "Corn Telethon" livestream with several of her friends from inside and outside the industry on Thursday, Sept. 4.

Lady Dee Stars in Latest From Immoral

Lady Dee stars with Paul Stalker and Charlie Dean in a new three-part release from Immoral Productions.

Adult Time Drops 'Busting Porn Myths Vol. 1' Informational Video

Adult Time has released the first volume of its new Performer Center series, “Busting Porn Myths.”

Octavia Red Stars in Final Episode of Bree Mills' 'Escape From Camp Conversion' From Adult Time

Octavia Red stars in the final episode of the Bree Mills-helmed thriller "Escape From Camp Conversion," from Adult Time studio brand Girlcore.

Octokuro Makes Her Vampired Debut

Octokuro has made her Vampired debut alongside Sata Jones in “Vampirella Unleashed.”

Natalia Starr Stars in Latest From New Sensations

Natalia Starr stars with Danny Mountain in the latest release from New Sensations.

Sabien DeMonia Drops Latest Evil Angel Directorial 'Depravation of Innocence'

Sabien DeMonia has dropped her latest directorial effort for Evil Angel, “Depravation of Innocence.”

Yhivi Makes Her Tushy Raw Debut

Yhivi has made her debut for Vixen Media Group (VMG) studio imprint Tushy Raw, alongside Dan Damage.

Cubbi Thompson Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Cubbi Thompson stars with Small Hands in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "She’s Good with Her Mouth."

Show More