SWCEO Interviews Kaytlin Bailey
Blog Post Written By: MelRose Michaels
December 17th marks the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, a poignant reminder of the struggles and triumphs of a marginalized community. But what's the story behind this day, and how can its history fuel a movement for change?
In a powerful Twitter Space conversation, MelRose Michaels sits down with Kaytlin Bailey, a comedian, writer, and unapologetic advocate for sex workers' rights. Together, they delve into the rich history of activism, uncovering a legacy of resistance and resilience that inspires us to take action. From this conversation, we'll explore the tangible steps we can take to create a safer, more just world for sex workers – and how we can all play a part in shaping a brighter future.
MelRose Michaels: Today is International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers, and I’m honored to have Kaytlin Bailey with us. Kaytlin is a comedian, writer, and advocate for sex workers’ rights, as well as the founder of Old Pros. Kaytlin, thank you for being here.
Let’s start by diving into your work. Can you tell us about Old Pros and what inspired you to create it?
Kaytlin Bailey: Thank you for having me! Old Pros started with my podcast, The Oldest Profession Podcast, in 2018. It was my response to the harmful narratives surrounding sex work, particularly after Donald Trump signed SESTA-FOSTA into law. I wanted to challenge the idea that becoming a sex worker leads to a life of suffering or shame. As I researched notable sex workers throughout history, I kept finding inspiring figures. What began as a podcast evolved into a nonprofit media organization to push back against stigma and advocate for decriminalization.
MelRose Michaels: That’s incredible. Today’s date is especially significant. What does the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers mean to you personally?
Kaytlin: This day is profoundly important. It’s been a cornerstone of the global sex worker rights movement for 21 years. My first December 17th event was in 2015 at Judson Memorial Church. We wrote down the names of sex workers we’ve lost and held a vigil to honor them. These ceremonies are powerful—they remind us to grieve as a community and to hold space for one another. It’s a sacred act that strengthens our bonds and brings new people into the movement.
MelRose Michaels: How did this day originate, and why December 17th?
Kaytlin: December 17th marks the sentencing of Gary Ridgway, the Green River Killer. He targeted sex workers because he knew society wouldn’t care. Annie Sprinkle and Robin Few, two incredible advocates, organized the first event in 2003. It began as a public vigil on the West Coast to honor Ridgway’s victims and invite the press to witness our resilience. They lit candles, read names, and demonstrated how criminalization and stigma make us more vulnerable. That first event planted the seeds for SWOP USA and inspired annual global observances.
MelRose Michaels: Your work shines a light on the history of sex work and its contributions to society. How does understanding this history shape today’s fight for rights and recognition?
Kaytlin: Understanding our history is essential because it challenges the narratives used to criminalize us. For example, the idea that policing sex work protects women is rooted in a long history of controlling women’s bodies. By highlighting the sacred roles sex workers once held—as priestesses, midwives, and organizers—we see how societal shifts, like the rise of patriarchy, demonized us. This context allows us to expose hypocrisy and advocate for evidence-based policies like decriminalization, which genuinely enhance safety and health.
MelRose Michaels: Speaking of policy, what are the most pressing challenges sex workers face, and what steps can reduce violence?
Kaytlin: The most urgent step is to stop arrests. Criminalization isolates us, making it harder to report violence or access justice. Decriminalization, as seen in New Zealand and Belgium, empowers sex workers to demand safe working conditions and sue for harassment or assault. Belgium recently introduced worker protections like maternity leave and retirement benefits for sex workers. Contrast that with “Nordic Model” countries, where criminalizing clients increases violence against us by reducing negotiating power and stability.
MelRose Michaels: Grassroots organizing has been pivotal for advocacy. What are some inspiring examples of sex workers building safety nets?
Kaytlin: There are many! In New Zealand, the NZPC operates clinics staffed by sex-worker-informed professionals. In the U.S., groups like SWOP Behind Bars create intermediaries to help sex workers report predators while protecting their anonymity. A recent success involved bringing a serial predator in New Jersey to justice. These efforts show the power of community in overcoming systemic barriers.
MelRose Michaels: You’ve touched on how sex workers built and shaped societies, including cities like New York. Can you elaborate?
Kaytlin: Absolutely. Sex workers were integral to New York’s early brothel culture, which incubated art, theater, and even modern advertising. A more recent example is Robin Byrd, a sex worker who became a cable-access pioneer in the 1970s. Her show provided groundbreaking representation for LGBTQ+ communities and sex workers. Robin’s work exemplifies how we’ve always been at the forefront of cultural and technological innovation.
MelRose Michaels: For those listening today, what concrete actions can they take to honor this day and make a difference?
Kaytlin: Start by educating yourself. Learn about the history of sex worker advocacy and the challenges we face. Support organizations like Old Pros, SWOP, or local sex worker-led groups. Most importantly, connect with your community. Whether that means attending a vigil, lighting a candle, or simply taking a moment to reflect, every act of solidarity counts.
MelRose Michaels: Beautifully said. Before we close, how can people support your work and stay connected?
Kaytlin: Follow Old Pros at oldprosonline.org and sign up for our newsletter. I’m also touring my show Whore’s Eye View, which reclaims sex worker history through comedy. I’ll perform in Las Vegas on January 23rd during the AVNs. If you’re in town, please join us. Connecting with other sex workers is the best part of this work, so I’d love to see you there.
MelRose Michaels: Thank you, Kaytlin. Your work inspires us all. This conversation has been a gift, and we’re so grateful for your time.
Kaytlin: Thank you, Melrose. It’s an honor to be part of this community. Let’s keep building together.
Some parts of the above interview have been condensed or edited for clarity. For the full interview, listen to the entire Twitter space.
Find on Kaytlin Bailey on Twitter.
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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the interview are those of the guest speaker and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SexWorkCEO or MelRose Michaels. Anything said or written is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone else.
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