Nevada Sex Workers Lead U.S. Unionization Effort
Nevada is unique in the United States for allowing legal sex work, and for the first time, sex workers at a historic brothel are pursuing unionization. Courtesans at Sheri’s Ranch in Pahrump aim to become the nation’s first unionized sex workers under the banner of the United Brothel Workers. The initiative, supported by the Communications Workers of America, was filed with the National Labor Relations Board.
Nevada’s Legal Framework for Sex Work
Prostitution is sanctioned in 10 counties throughout rural Nevada, while areas such as Clark County, which includes Las Vegas, do not permit it. Sheri’s Ranch is located about an hour from Las Vegas, making it accessible yet distinct from the bustling city.
Motivation for Unionization
The movement to form a union emerged following new independent contractor agreements introduced in December 2023. These agreements granted the brothel the right to use workers’ likenesses without permission, raising serious concerns among sex workers about their image and intellectual property rights.
- Jupiter Jetson, a worker at Sheri’s Ranch, voiced concerns about unconsented use of her image, comparing the situation to unwanted endorsements.
- Another worker, Molly Wylder, shared that she sees sex work as a temporary solution for paying student loans.
Worker Rights and Responsibilities
The proposed contract allows the brothel particular control over the women’s intellectual property, stating it would have an “irrevocable, worldwide, perpetual, royalty-free” license. This places significant constraints on the workers, who advocate for their rights, parity in contracts, and benefits such as health insurance.
Challenges Faced by Courtesans
Many courtesans feel pressured to sign contracts quickly without adequate time for review. After initiating the unionization process, several women reportedly faced termination and other forms of retaliation. The ongoing legal nature of the dispute may further complicate their efforts.
Historical Context
Efforts for unionization in the adult entertainment industry have met with mixed success. Notably, dancers at the Star Garden in Los Angeles became the first unionized group of strippers, while the Lusty Lady in San Francisco successfully formed a union in 1997 before closing. Legislative progress has also been made in states like Washington, which enacted the “Strippers’ Bill of Rights” in March 2024, enhancing protections for adult entertainers.
The Significance of This Movement
The campaign by Sheri’s Ranch workers marks a pivotal moment in an industry that traditionally avoids visibility. Experts, including Barb Brents, emphasize that this unionization attempt is a powerful statement advocating for rights within a historically stigmatized profession.
As these workers strive for recognition and fair treatment, they highlight the ongoing debate over employment classifications that affect their rights, autonomy, and working conditions. The outcome of their unionization effort could set a precedent for sex workers across the United States.
