Dear Editor,

How is it we are well into the 21st century and still show little to no respect for the health and welfare of women who work in the prostitution field in this country? Being one of the oldest recognised professions in the world we continue to treat these women like pieces of garbage that litter our “oh so moral” streets.

We seem to be ignorant of the fact that these are our fellow human beings that deserve dignity, respect, and protection. We should legalise prostitution and provide a safe environment in which they can be given rights, health care and options for a more promising future. Our politicians, businessmen and community members often see fit to utilise the services of these women but then publicly refuse to acknowledge that they even exist.

When are we going to finally learn that sex is part of our existence and people who choose to earn a living this way shouldn’t be treated as parasites? Doesn’t everyone deserve the right to be safe in this country? Let us put ignorance, denial and religious rhetoric behind us and stand together to protect the most vulnerable of our fellow Canadians.