The Supreme Court on Dec. The landmark ruling capped off a two-decade fight launched by Bedford that she says finally gives the typical sex worker basic freedom. She has her rights and freedoms. Though prostitution was not previously illegal in Canada, virtually everything around the business of it was: public solicitation, operating a bawdy house and living off the avails of prostitution.
The former legal restrictions meant that prostitutes could not negotiate price or the act or even have time to size up a potential customer, could not hire security, and could not set up an operation somewhere that had cameras and employees or other safeguards.
As well, the stigma of illegality meant that sex workers were more subject to have children removed, were reticent to call police when assaulted, and could not easily get such things as loans or other jobs, especially with a criminal record. Get the latest headlines, breaking news and columns. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way.
If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Headline News will soon be in your inbox. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. So like most other types of work, she wants sex work considered legitimate.
Bedford said the laws that are already in place to protect women and children should be enforced more. So many people were hurt by the law. Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively but civil forum for discussion.
