Dec17 letter of support for SWAN.
912 Cole St. #202 San Francisco, CA 94117 www.swopusa.org 1-877-776-2004
January 31, 2008
To: the Akim of Taldykorgan City
S.E. Zhylkaidarov
Dear Mr Zhylkaidarov,
Sex Workers Outreach Project USA, would like to express support of activities of Taldykorgan Regional Foundation of Employment Assistance in connection to empowerment of vulnerable groups in Taldykorgan City and also to clarify the misunderstanding regarding activities of December 17, 2007.
Since December 17th 2003, Sex Workers Outreach Project USA (SWOP-USA), along with sex workers advocates and allies around the world have held events to draw attention to acts of violence committed against sex workers.
DEC 17th International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers is an annual event, founded by SWOP-USA to remember the victims of one of the United States most prolific serial murderers who killed over 48 women within a 23 year period. The death toll for prostitutes has risen yearly and spreads throughout the world. Sex worker advocacy organizations joined with SWOP USA to draw attention to violence in their communities. In spite of the collective efforts of these organizations the violence against sex workers has not only continued but it has increased. All over the world predators have attacked this vulnerable community with little impunity. Each year, participation in this event grows substantially including 15 countries in Eastern, Central Europe and Central Asia joining in various forms and on different scales. Politicians, clergy, health care providers, social workers and police officers have joined in support of these events. Media from around the world have covered these events, including television, radio and newspaper. There is vast internet support including a website dedicated to DEC 17th. www.swopusa.org/dec17 for more detail of local events visit official SWAN website at www.swannet.org
Every December 17th advocates allies and yes, even sex workers take to the streets with their red umbrella’s to draw attention to the violence and discrimination against this population. We welcome the media and public to join in the conversation about stigma against sex worki. We exercise our right to free speech in the many countries around the world that practice in a democracy to bring attention to this topic. We know that Kazakhstan recognizes the rights of free speech as reflected in the Constitution of Kazakhstan, where it is stated that "the highest value to the state is the person, his/her life, rights and freedoms” (Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Part I, art.I, sub.5). Through our coordinated efforts, we call upon you as the Akim of the city to contribute to the implementation and enhancement of a democratic society through open discussions in media and through providing equal rights and opportunities for all people living in Taldykorgan and to provide informational and social assistance to those who need them. Taldykorgan Regional Foundation for Employment Assistance has served the society since 1999 and is a valuable center for help to population in this sphere.
Sincerely,
Robyn Few
Sex Workers Outreach Project USA
