A spirited group took to the streets, passionately exercising their right to demonstrate through a vibrant display of songs and placards. With chants like ‘My mother was a kitchen girl and my father was a garden boy that is why I’m a sex worker’ and signs proclaiming ‘Sex work is work’, ‘Stop violence against sex workers’, and ‘We are equal’, approximately 50 individuals made their voices heard.
Navigating a circular route from Tzaneen Clinic back to its origin, the group held a poignant ceremony at the clinic. The event delved into crucial topics, including ‘Know your human rights’, spearheaded by Hlokomela’s paralegal officer, Xichavo Rikhotso, alongside Road to Decriminalisation of Sex Work’s Ntshuxeko Shilubane.
Amidst the fervor, organizations such as Sisonke and Hlokomela advocated for the decriminalisation of prostitution, citing its significant economic contributions. Poland Mabunda, a male sex worker from Mariveni village, shared his journey into sex work in 2017 due to challenging circumstances at home. “I love my work, and since starting, I've witnessed positive changes in my household,” expressed Mabunda, who aspires to pursue further education after facing setbacks in Grade 12. “I aim to turn my life around through education.”
The day culminated in a celebratory dance and a nourishing meal, fostering a sense of camaraderie. Amanda Mgimeti, Hlokomela’s advocacy officer, hailed the event as a success for shining a spotlight on the critical issue of decriminalising sex work.