Victimizing Is Dehumanizing
When most people think of women that are sex workers, they are often quick to associate them with being victims in need of saving. These women are usually thought to be forced against their will to work in this industry, ridden with disease, or if working within this industry willingly, barraged with emotional issues. That is not to say that all women are forced against their will and are unhealthy. The fact that we are quick to victimize all women within this industry amplifies stigma and is dehumanizing. In a publication from humanityinaction.org that addressed those employed willingly within the industry, the following statement was by an employee in response to the mental health stigma associated with them. “I won’t say it isn’t true that some women in prostitution are emotional wrecks. But does that come from prostitution or from internalized self-hatred about being a whore? Does it come from the stigma because people found out and never wanted to talk to you again?