In solidarity with sex workers interrupting criminalization
'SWIFA' has come together in response to intensified policing
Click here to support Sex Workers Interrupting FIFA Atrocities’ (SWIFA) fundraiser directly!
In June and July, the FIFA 2026 world cup will come to the Vancouver. Along with this mega-event will come a heightened police presence, particularly within the 2km “bubble zone” of BC Place, which includes the Downtown Eastside.
Vancouver has passed a collection of “FIFA bylaws” that will increase the criminalization of activities ranging from street performance to displaying merchandise within the bubble zone. (P.O.W.E.R. has previously noted that this intensified policing can already be felt).
These events are taking place alongside a rapid defunding and shuttering of gender-specific and sex worker-led organizations in the city. With few spaces to rely on, we anticipate that street-based sex workers working in the DTES will be disproportionately impacted by law enforcement crackdowns during the FIFA “event period.” Notably, the City of Vancouver eliminated one of their two sex worker safety planner positions just months before the event period starts.
In response, a group of local sex workers and community workers are organizing direct mutual aid for sex workers working in the DTES during this period. This response will include:
Hosting a “pop-up” drop-in space in the DTES on FIFA game days to offer sex workers reprieve from police surveillance and harassment
Supply distribution and outreach on game days to ensure access to essential items and other supports
Distributing micro-grants to workers negatively affected by FIFA-related displacement.
SWIFA aims to offer a short-term response during a period of heightened instability to offset some predicted increased violence against sex workers.
With support, SWIFA hopes to create a small ‘decriminalized’ zone where sex workers can access the resources they need to safely do their work!
Ways to support now:
If you have items to donate, such as: seasonal clothing, lingerie, shoes, makeup/accessories, cellphones and survival gear (tents, tarps, sleeping bags), head to SWIFA’s donation drive on April 18th from 12pm to 3PM at 647 East Hastings. Items should be in good condition —something you would give to a friend!
Follow SWIFA’s social media for ongoing calls, particularly as law enforcement crackdowns ramp up as FIFA 2026 draws nearer!
Background
Raising the alarm on gender-based violence in the DTES (zine)
For migrant sex workers, police are the ‘most dangerous gang’ in the business: Breach Media
Open Letter: Adopt more effective anti-trafficking approaches: SWAN
“I Know So Many Women That Have the Same Story as Mine:” How the Increase of Benzodiazepines in the Unregulated Drug Supply Shapes Experiences of Gender-Based Violence: Contemporary Drug Problems
Police drive violence in the unregulated drug and sex work markets: Drug Data Decoded
Red Women Rising report: Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre