By: Saidu Jalloh
On June 2, 2025, Pink Power, an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of women and girls, commemorated International Sex Workers Day with a vibrant and impactful event at the Arbedeen Community Center. The gathering brought together hundreds of women many of whom are marginalized or survivors of abuse—to celebrate resilience and raise awareness of issues affecting sex workers and young girls.
Speaking at the event, Mary Kabay, Project Coordinator for Youth Empowerment and Communications Officer at Pink Power, emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting sex workers and helping them transition into safer livelihoods.
“We are not just raising awareness or protecting them—we are also encouraging them to leave sex work and find alternatives. We’ve helped many through vocational trainings such as tailoring, gara tie-dyeing, hairdressing, and catering. Some of them now work with Pink Power as volunteers or staff,” Kabay explained.
She further underscored the importance of education and empowerment. “We believe in equipping women and girls with knowledge of their rights and helping them speak out against abuse,” she said.
The event was attended by students from four prominent schools: Saint Joseph Convent, Freetown Secondary School for Girls, Methodist Girls’ High School, and Anne Walsh Memorial Secondary School. Kabay noted that these institutions are part of Pink Power’s Youth Empowerment Project, which targets young girls with programs that inform them about their rights and encourage abstinence from early sexual activity.
Reflecting on the history of International Sex Workers Day, Kabay said, “It was on June 2, 1975, that sex workers marched through the streets of Lyon, France, to a church, demanding their rights and dignity. At Pink Power, we honor that legacy by using our platform to raise awareness, advocate for justice, and help women realize their potential.”
She highlighted Pink Power’s broader outreach, which extends to communities and schools. Debates and awareness campaigns educate schoolgirls on the dangers of sex work. “We’re not here to stigmatize, but to guide. Those already in sex work are advised on health, safety, and their rights,” she added.
Jasmine Sesay, a student at Saint Joseph Convent Secondary School, shared her experience with Pink Power. “They’ve taught me about hygiene, responsibility, and the importance of focusing on school. I’m thankful for how they’ve inspired me to be a better version of myself,” she said.
Former sex worker Kadijatu Conteh, now a staff member at Pink Power, described the day as emotional and empowering. “This day helps me connect with others and share my journey,” she said.
Reflecting on her past, Conteh shared, “I’ve been taken advantage of, beaten, and robbed. It wasn’t an easy life.” She praised Pink Power’s outreach programs, which educate schools, communities, and sex workers about STD prevention, the importance of protection, and the dangers of drug use.
To women and girls currently in sex work, Conteh offered heartfelt advice: “It’s a hard life. You can quit. There are other ways to support yourself. I did it, and so can you.”
Through programs like this, Pink Power continues to empower women and girls, advocating for dignity, rights, and safer futures.