DSW Builds Support in Rhode Island

This March, Decriminalize Sex Work (DSW) staff traveled to Rhode Island to build coalition with advocates across the state and the broader New England region.

The trip focused on strengthening relationships with legislators, local partners, and members of SHORES RI, the Rhode Island coalition of sex work advocacy groups. Together, advocates are building support for a slate of legislation this session, including a full decriminalization bill (H8057/S2399) and a bill to outlaw police sexual violence (H8272/S2157).

DSW Staff Attorney Becca Cleary, Chief Advocacy Coordinator Henri Bynx, and Legal Director Melissa Broudo participated in strategy meetings aimed at aligning priorities, sharing updates, and coordinating advocacy efforts in advance of upcoming hearings.

Trips like this are a core part of DSW’s approach to policy change. By investing in coalition building and regional coordination, DSW and its partners are working to strengthen the movement and advance policies that improve safety, health, and rights for sex workers and survivors of trafficking.