The Democratic Party has quietly removed language protecting sex workers from their 2024 campaign platform, a shift from their 2020 stance that has alarmed advocates.

According to HotAir, the party's 2020 platform included a commitment to "protect the lives of sex workers," but this promise is notably absent from the 2024 edition.

The change has not gone unnoticed by those in the sex work industry, with some expressing fear and concern over what this omission might mean for their safety and rights.

The removal of this language comes at a time when issues surrounding sex work and trafficking have become increasingly complex and politically charged.

Advocates Express Concern Over Platform Change

Electra Rayne, founder of QueerCrush and a prominent advocate for sex worker rights, voiced her apprehension about the platform change.

Speaking to Newsweek, Rayne said:

We don't have a way to know if we will be safe. Personally, I'm absolutely terrified of what the future looks like. Harris's campaign is positing itself as super progressive...and then they completely eliminated the one mention we had. It's really startling. It's really alarming. It's really concerning.

Rayne and others in the sex work community are particularly troubled by the contrast between the Democratic Party's previous stance and the current omission.

Some advocates are pointing fingers at Vice President Kamala Harris, citing her record as California's District Attorney, where she prosecuted sex workers and was involved in shutting down Backpage.com, a website frequently used by sex workers.

The removal of sex worker protections from the platform raises questions about whether this was an intentional policy shift or an oversight in the rushed process of drafting the 2024 platform. The Democratic National Committee had to quickly revise its platform following President Biden's withdrawal from the race, which may have led to unintended omissions.

Changing Public Perception And Border Crisis Impact

The decision to remove sex worker protections from the Democratic platform may reflect a broader shift in public opinion.

Recent years have seen increased concern over sex trafficking, particularly in relation to the ongoing border crisis. The influx of undocumented individuals has been linked to a rise in sex trafficking, with many cities reporting an increase in visible prostitution.

This shift in public sentiment is evident in recent legal actions and community responses. In San Francisco, residents have sued the city government over what they describe as "a rampant prostitution problem." Similar concerns have been raised in New York City, indicating a growing unease with visible sex work in urban areas.

Furthermore, public health concerns have added to the complexity of the issue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported a significant increase in sexually transmitted diseases, with syphilis cases rising by 80% in recent years. This surge has been partially attributed to the influx of new sex workers crossing the southern border.

Political Calculations And Electoral Considerations

The Democratic Party's decision to remove sex worker protections from their platform may be a calculated move in response to changing public attitudes.

With polls suggesting growing concern over issues related to prostitution and sex trafficking, particularly among women voters, the party may be attempting to distance itself from a potentially controversial stance.

The omission could be seen as an effort to appeal to a broader base of voters who may be uncomfortable with explicit support for sex work. This shift in policy language reflects the delicate balance political parties must strike between maintaining their core values and adapting to evolving public sentiment.

However, this change in stance risks alienating sex workers and their advocates, who have traditionally found more support from progressive political movements. The tension between these competing interests highlights the complex nature of sex work as a political issue in the current climate.

Conclusion

The Democratic Party's removal of sex worker protections from their 2024 platform marks a significant shift from their previous stance. This change reflects broader societal concerns about sex trafficking, public health, and border security. The decision has sparked debate within the sex work community and raises questions about the party's evolving priorities. As the political landscape continues to shift, the treatment of sex work in party platforms may serve as an indicator of broader social and policy trends.