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Kwakwani sex workers organization promotes development, raises self esteem of members

A few years ago a close relative of Miriam Edwards was diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and like so many other Guyanese, she discriminated against the relative in many ways even going so far as to prevent her children from eating food prepared by her.

Miriam Edwards

Edwards did this despite the fact that she was living a risky life as a sex worker at the time and she too needed counselling and support.

Today, while Edwards is still torn up over her actions, in memory of the relative she has since been helping persons living with HIV/AIDS and has started a vibrant group for sex workers.

She did not allow her relative to die without showing her that she cared, and after her relative became hospitalised she was the only family member who took care of her.

As the Director of the ‘One Love’ Kwakwani Sex Workers organisation, Edwards said that the group was hoping to raise the self-esteem of members and to promote their development through education and participation in social activities.

Priorities

The group is prepared to fight against the violence and abuse sex workers suffer and to help them get access to skills training. The protection of their families is also high on the list of priorities and they hope to establish day-care centres, among other things.

While the group is still young, Edwards, who is also the head of the Caribbean Sex Workers Coalition, said they had 25 members who were sex workers, as well as other persons who had joined in order to assist her in achieving a better standard of living for sex workers in the community.

In a recent interview with Stabroek News, Edwards said she had become motivated after being selected to head the Caribbean group.

Edwards is a very busy woman, being head of her group as well as a sex worker-peer educator in New Amsterdam where she lives. She also travels to all the communities in the Berbice River, educating residents about HIV/AIDS, taking taped episodes of the radio programme Merundoi, in which she plays a role, and holding discussions after these are aired. She also works at the New Amsterdam prisons.

“When she [her relative] died, I promise that I will look to people with HIV,” Edwards said. She does volunteer work at hospitals, mostly at the New Amsterdam institution, the town she now calls home.

Edwards told this newspaper she had been born and bred in Kwakwani, and she felt that that community needed her support more than any other.

She said during her work as a peer educator for sex workers she realised that the area really needed some form of representation for sex workers.

“Kwakwani is an area where you have bauxite and you have mining going on up the river, so you have men who would come and go. We have these women who would have sex with them for money, and we have people who would not call themselves sex workers but they still have sex with these men for money. But they would not say sex work… and when you look at it they are at risk… and I looked at them and said they are my people and they need such an organisation,” she said.

She described her organisation as one which provides the opportunity for its members to meet and share experiences, and offer support to each other. In the group the women can find other women who are having some of the same experiences they have had.

Edwards has since approached the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS), and representatives from the secretariat are expected to visit the community to conduct some skills training with the members of the organization. “It would be very good for them,” Edwards said. She is hoping that other organisations would come on board to work with her group members so as to improve their lives.

Job creation

Asked if her aim is to get her members to discontinue their lives as sex workers, Edwards said if she were to do so she would first have to create jobs for them.

“I cannot create jobs for them, but I am working with them and I hope to give them skills training, so that they can do something for themselves other than being a sex worker; that is my hope. And I am trying to let people recognise them as persons and not discriminate against them… Being a sex worker is not nothing easy; to go out there and be a sex worker is very hard. So I am trying to educate other people in the community to respect these people and stop treating them like outcasts.”

Edwards also stated that some of her members had a sound educational background, but because there were no job opportunities in the community they were forced to make money the best way possible.
“They are willing to do other things, but because there are no job opportunities for them… and you have these men coming in and they throwing the big money and the women will have sex with them…”

Her members are forced to walk down the streets and hear themselves being referred to by derogatory names, and “people treat them like nothing – like some church people would try to say they are not fit because they are sex workers.”

“We have sex workers who would do sex work and sometimes their children would turn to sex work and because the community is so small and we have no job opportunities we have a lot of teenage pregnancies. So I want to work with all these people…” she said.

Being true to
themselves

Edwards said that at present members of her organisation are going out into the community educating the populace about HIV/AIDS while sharing out condoms.

She pointed out that her hands were tied, and the most she could do is to educate persons about the virus in an effort to reduce stigma and discrimination and offer some sort of support base for them.

She recalled that when she and others came up with the idea of forming the group they wanted to be “true” to themselves and instead of hiding behind another name they made it known that they were sex workers.

“We wanted to be recognised as humans, let people recognise us for who we are; we said we want to be true to ourselves and we said we are going to make a sex worker group.”

She said it was not difficult to recruit members as persons were longing to be part of some organisation where they were recognised.

Edwards knows what her members are experiencing because of the fact that she was once there, and she said she was not ashamed for persons to know that she was once a sex worker, hence the reason for her being the director of the group.

“Sometimes we got to do what we got to do, sometimes you don’t want to go out there and have sex for money but because of your situation… and that is why I don’t discriminate… because I know I was there and I had a reason why I was there.”

She says she is the mother of five girls and two boys between the ages of 9 and 23. She had her first child when she was just 15 years old. She said her past had not affected her children in any way, and in fact the work that she was now involved in had made her children very proud.

Funding for kitchen

Edwards said that she was hoping to receive funding to establish a kitchen for her members where they could come together and cook and probably sell their dishes.

“They can sell these things [the dishes] and they wouldn’t have to be on the streets as often, because sometimes it can get real hard and they have kids to send to school and some of them have six children.”

She said that her group had access to a building where the kitchen could be established, but it needed repairs, and it was their wish that an organisation or benevolent person could assist them in getting it done.

Edwards said should the building be repaired it would be possible for them to create a space where their members could seek refuge should they experience problems at home. “They can come and lie down and sleep, and talk to others and relax.”

The group is also seeking a donation of books and some furniture for their children-friendly corner that has been established for the children of members. “We have people who are willing to volunteer to teach these children to read, but we also need more volunteers.”

Edwards said she was also open to guidance from persons in taking her group in the right direction, as she was still new to being a director, and while she had many ideas she needed assistance to execute them.

In the meantime, persons interested in assisting Edwards and her group can dial 688-3008 and 333-3701.

Comments

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52 Responses to “Kwakwani sex workers organization promotes development, raises self esteem of members”

Brave
on September 8th, 2008 5:36 am

Keep up the good works sister Guyana need more people like you.

[Reply to this]
optimistic pessimist
In reply to the above comment on September 8th, 2008 10:28 pm:
More people like her to do what? To tell women that it is ok that if they feel that circumstances dictate it, to be a Lady-of-the-night? That if times are hard enough and no other opportunity avails it’s itself, that it is quite ok and justifiable to sell their bodies and all they need to do is be careful that they don’t contract aids? This is so ridiculous!!!

I can understand counseling them and trying to get them out of the despicable situation that they are in not to hold their hand and sing Kumbiya! I can understand patching them up and telling them that they were better that that. That they need not stoop so low. That they needed to pull themselves out of the gutter and have some self respect, that they needed to do something constructive with their lives.

What is all this stupidness about being true to themselves eh? What is that??? Being true to themselves means that they were born to be prostitutes??? That they were born to sell the bodies that have been entrusted to them to be ravished by lascivious men, to the extent that they need to be true to themselves? What self deceptive bile is that?

[Reply to this]
ChocolateCCM
In reply to the above comment on September 9th, 2008 5:11 pm:
optimistic pessimist,

For the first time I agree with you 100 percent. It is not okay to turn to prostitution. Give her some credit for her willingness to make a positive difference in the lives of women [not the okay to be a prostitute part].

These women do not know their worth, and they are lost. They just need the support, had the government and men in Guyana done their parts, then these women would be admonishing their children in the right and proper way.

They would be doing some other occupation than prostituting their bodies. The government is too slack with the irresponsible men in Guyana. It is about time they force them to be A-MAN and take up their own mantles.

This is one of the reasons that I CRY SHAME ON MEN IN GUYANA AND THE GOVERNMENT.

There are other things to do than prostituting one self for some dirty dollars. It is better to clean someone’s restroom than prostituting your body.

I understand the pressure. Hence, I will not point my finger in people’s face who are fighting for survival.

Later
guy123
on September 8th, 2008 5:48 am

These women should get the help they seek..Is it legal to be a sex worker in Guyana?

[Reply to this]
Joe Coxall
In reply to the above comment on September 8th, 2008 5:49 pm:
My friend,
What kind of question is that? the sex business is the oldest profession in the world and you know that. In poor countries it is the only means for some women to earn a living. In the USA you can get very rich plying the trade. But be careful the next time you visit the USA because men are also part of the business and you would not want to be caught in an uncompromising position with a member of the same sex::::LOL

Joe.

[Reply to this]
optimistic pessimist
In reply to the above comment on September 8th, 2008 10:36 pm:
“… the help they seek?” The help that they should seek is to make something of their lives, to stop abusing their bodies and endangering their lives. To stop this debasing and self destructing way of life and be proper examples to their children.

You guys are so caught up in this smoke screen that seeks to legalize and normalize and put a stamp of approval on this most debasing albeit oldest form of shameful professions. Thank this Florence-lady-of-the-nightingale for her humanitarian action but do not condone her trying to get these poor unfortunate women, “…to be true to themselves…” as she puts it.

[Reply to this]
darcman (IBGT4eva)
on September 8th, 2008 8:09 am

Indeed a brave act. Trust that your are sucessful in all endevours…

[Reply to this]
COSMIKE
on September 8th, 2008 8:27 am

Power to you sister,I myself did some volunteer work at a community center bringing together youths to come and watch videos of real people whose lives had very serious consequences because they did’nt practice safe sex, The program was also enlightening to myself and i still have some valuable literature that also addresses other STD’S i don’t mind sharing if i have a mailing address of your organization, I can be reached at cosmike70@hotmail.com keep up the good work, you’re truly courageous ! SAFE SEX IS NO SEX , anything else has risks.

[Reply to this]
ChocolateCCM
In reply to the above comment on September 8th, 2008 5:55 pm:
COS,

I agree with you all the way.

[Reply to this]
COSMIKE
In reply to the above comment on September 9th, 2008 7:08 am:
Thanks Chocolate, you’re one of the smart ones in here, kudos!
drumup_change
on September 8th, 2008 8:48 am

………………………take note the age of the sex worker and look at the time this establishment was able to development /come to light and the government in power causing it brew………………………this ppp government have a lot to be blame for…………………no guyanese should excuse him or her self of an education……………………the face is black in this ad………………….but i can tell you that this ad entombs both indo and african guyanese………………this source of hiv/aids is the second source that is distroying small communities…………due to government neglet………….a skill craftman/woman, an education…………………its in this development that one brings wealth to his or her country………………………..oh!!!………………..guyana………….i feel your pain……………..750,000/40,000 = lets say 19……………………one in every nineteen persons have aids/hiv………………we soon have no people…………………poverty is a crime………………a poor education with a pit latrin mentality/establish breads a real bad community and this community breads the crime/criminals………………….sounds funny……………do the rsearch……………..and you will see the out come………….crime………….!!!!…………………site……….the govrnment is doing real well……………..

[Reply to this]
optimistic pessimist
In reply to the above comment on September 8th, 2008 10:41 pm:
The unfortunate way that you format you format your blogs literally scream… “DO NOT READ ME!!!”

Get with the rest of the world son, those periods are very distracting and quite plainly annoying but I guess that you feel that you are putting your ‘mark’ on the world huh? You are probably feeling that you are being “Artistic” clever and refreshingly different don’t you?

NEWSFLASH!!! You are being special… yea short-bus special

[Reply to this]
COSMIKE
In reply to the above comment on September 9th, 2008 7:15 am:
Wow look who’s talking about “putting mark” look in a mirror mr judge - MENTAL you are making marks of your own bashing bloggers here, whats with the double standard, are you the new grammar God? oooops i capitalze that one sorry !

PESSIMIST CONTROL
In reply to the above comment on September 11th, 2008 2:24 am:
PESSIMIST! It’s time you mind yuh own business and let bloggers express themselves how best they can, did SN ask you to be their spelling dictionary ? get a life grrrrrrrr !!!
Ankoko
on September 8th, 2008 8:54 am

This woman and her organisation has a profound vision. It is sorely needed in our current society of so many social problems that need addressing. The public needs to be informed about groups such as this and how to contribute financially and otherwise to these very worthy causes.
SN Editor. Please publish some contact and donation information!

Moderator’s note: Contact info is at the bottom of the story.

[Reply to this]
optimistic pessimist
In reply to the above comment on September 8th, 2008 10:43 pm:
“… profound vision…” OMG I am surrounded by Einsteins!!! I am all out of Awards!!!

[Reply to this]
COSMIKE
In reply to the above comment on September 9th, 2008 7:25 am:
To sit and make fun of a situation that is destroying so many lives, instead of trying to be part of a solution is rather shameful of you, you are by no means optimistic, and should not use that name, This woman is very brave and you can only wish to be like her, you self righteous very literate yes literate human being !!

ChocolateCCM
In reply to the above comment on September 9th, 2008 5:17 pm:
Aha a haha COS, nice observation.

I must pat you on the back for your keen eagle eyes. Optimistic is the opposite of his name by and large.
MOST
on September 8th, 2008 9:14 am

Congratulations to Ms.Edwards.You are surely on the right path and I wish lot more people could come to this realisation.Sex workers are indeed very important people and I say so from my heart.I would like to refer to them as therapeutic agents,for they not only give sex but assist a lot of men who are lonley with low self esteem.They are good listeners too so truly their work is just as important and I feel for them,still the work must go on,someone have to do it.I would like to suggest a clarion call to those N.G.O.’s who only give lip service to hush their mouths and pull their pockets and lend support to these wonderful people who are doing a great work for these very important workers.You few good men please assist Ms.Edwards and her group.I am unemployed at the moment and can bearly make ends meet but out there are people who can make that difference.So you do it today.Keep up the work and struggle Ms.Edwards and shout to the Lord for help too.He is a great and strong tower for all of us too.Peace and love.Most high.

[Reply to this]
eloise
on September 8th, 2008 10:40 am

IT IS A VERY GOOD THING SHE IS DOING.
THE GOVERMENT SHOULD HELP HER TO KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, SO SHE CAN HELP THE PEOPLE TO LIVE A BETTER LIFE. I WOULD LIKE TO GET IN TOUCH WITH HER SO THAT I COULD HELP. AFTER ALL GUYANA’S PEOPLE ARE MY PEOPLE TOO. I DO HELP OTHER COUNTRIES, SO IT IS TIME I HELP MY OWN.

[Reply to this]
tiger
on September 8th, 2008 10:42 am

keep up the good works which u are involved in ms. edwards, i wish u all the best in your future endeavours, also i suggest you teach others to follow in your footsteps.

[Reply to this]
tiger
on September 8th, 2008 10:47 am

keep up the good works which you are involved in ms.edwards and i suggest you teach others so they can follow in your footsteps.

[Reply to this]
Irreverend
on September 8th, 2008 10:55 am

More power to Ms Edwards. Keep up the good work.

[Reply to this]
Arnold
on September 8th, 2008 11:11 am

As the oldest known profession, not one of the best, I am sure that the “workers”
always have their Esteem and Moral at low levels…………

A help by Miriam will surely be welcomed by the members.

Let’s be reflective, The HOLY BIBLE, GEETA and QUORAN all repudes this type of “work” no matter of Creed or Need.

“Man Shall Not Live By Bread Alone”…….

[Reply to this]
Kerwin
on September 8th, 2008 11:13 am

Avery pleasant good afternoon to all those that took the time to read about what miss Edward os doing,i am writing fr London and i can say very boldly,God loves us all and the more persons in Guyana and around the world learn to see the positive even in the negitive and be always happy to lend a helping hand regardless of their situation which none is perminent,keep up the good works and remember”change is the constant thing in life”so people every where can change if only we all STOP thinking that we r better off than those living with HIV,for they too need our love,support and attention and trust me the more we focus on helping others the more almighty God will help us.

[Reply to this]
optimistic pessimist
In reply to the above comment on September 8th, 2008 10:47 pm:
Kerwin, Kerwin. What are you saying? I had to read your blog through a spelling and grammar filter to even begin to understand what you said there and I use the term ‘understand’ lightly… very lightly

[Reply to this]
COSMIKE
In reply to the above comment on September 9th, 2008 7:31 am:
Wow! you are so educated that if god left a blog here you won’t spare him the grammar check either, keep on judging, hopefully the moderator gets fed up of you soon!

ChocolateCCM
In reply to the above comment on September 9th, 2008 5:34 pm:
Kerwin,

A well-said statement brother, I agree with you.

I understand and comprehend your comment very well. Your thoughts were clear and effective, do not pay any mind to optimistic.

Optimistic, is very callous if you don’t know by now. Don’t worry, I still think that you have some decencies in you though.
Amarie
on September 8th, 2008 11:13 am

It is indeed refreshing that an ordinary citizen such as Ms. Edwards can be so forward thinking.
Listen to this woman: HIV/AIDs education, community sensitivity training, skills training, small business (kitchen) and childcare. Sounds like she is doing what a lot of people in high offices are paid to do. She is looking to protect the women in her group and at the same time provide other opportunities for them.
Although some may not readily support her because of her background, it is worthy to note that this profession will not go away and our women and children will remain at risk if it is not addressed without prejudice.
This woman is deserving of all our support. The group should open an account so that interested persons may make donations.

[Reply to this]
decanadianCarlVeecock
on September 8th, 2008 12:10 pm

This is a very very brave woman given the prevailing attitudes among most
guyanese

I hope she continues and works with all her strength, plus I hope that
the Ministry of Social services do give her all support.

[Reply to this]
Light
In reply to the above comment on September 8th, 2008 3:00 pm:
The Ministry of Social Services should give her organisation support, and many of us showing an interest in the affairs of the country, via our comments in this forum and in the diaspora, should form ourselves into support groups, and concretely help in providing for the development of the skills, micro and medium businesses etc; that will help to lift these poor and vulnerable individuals, out of poverty, economic insecurity and desperation.
No government alone can solve the myriad of social ills and problems that beset their countries.
By putting our heads and hands together we can bring about the desired change for our common good; our deeds will speak louder that our voices !

[Reply to this]
COSMIKE
In reply to the above comment on September 9th, 2008 7:32 am:
Well said Light, I second that motion!
Major
on September 8th, 2008 1:43 pm

I hear a voice crying in the wilderness, let us all try in what ever small way to support Ms Edwards, she has admitted that she is young as a director. I would like to see her establish an email address which would enhance assistance to her. I will make contact with her.

[Reply to this]
MR, WEST.BANK
In reply to the above comment on September 8th, 2008 7:30 pm:
Go for is, you have my support 100% Major.

When you make contack please inform us here.

Great work my Sister.

[Reply to this]
optimistic pessimist
on September 8th, 2008 2:16 pm

See, this here is a very slippery slope. Everyone seems to be singing their unreserved praise and this is so surprising and frankly a bit disturbing to me!

I have two reactions to this news article. The first is that anytime that one attempts to improve the life of his/her fellow human beings one must be applauded.

The second is that anytime we attempt to elevate a negative societal trait to a position of normalcy we run the risk of encouraging those in that society who may have been hesitant, to accept that lifestyle as “normal” A perfect example of this is the scourge of homosexuality. Now- a-days we have homosexuals coming out of the woodwork largely because the situation is so favorable for them to do so.

Because I have so little time presently, I will have to develop on this a little later in the day.

[Reply to this]
Dtech
on September 8th, 2008 4:30 pm

Guyana needs to come to grips with reality……….no matter if we turn a blind eye to this occupation or make it illigal……that wouldnt stop the fact that is does exist……. Guyanese ppl need to stop being naieev about this……….Sex Worker in Guyana is inevitable. We need to offer support to these women….properly educate them……and may be then we can begin this fight against HIV and AIDS.
Nice to see we have brave women in Guyana……..May be the government should learn from her.

[Reply to this]
SOESDYKE
on September 8th, 2008 4:57 pm

Keep up the good work my sister. And it is good to get some news for a change. Peace out.

[Reply to this]
briantee
on September 8th, 2008 5:47 pm

It is indeed a brave stand to take but i am wondering about the legality of this line of work.
If it is unlawful the authorities may intervene

[Reply to this]
Vicram
on September 8th, 2008 6:29 pm

This situation is very difficult to digest but it’s very real. Wow!

[Reply to this]
Tom Jones
on September 8th, 2008 9:18 pm

Congrats Ms. Edwards and keep the good works up.

[Reply to this]
Sanderson Rowe
on September 8th, 2008 9:43 pm

Best of luck to her. I suspect that help from many quarters will not be quick in coming forth. Many people in our society , who would willingly contribute are hesitant, because of what others will perceive if seen in the company of known sex-workers . A acquaitance who is in the business of AIDS Counselling, found that she was being shunned by ordinary people and some friends, simply because if seen in her company, many would jump to the conclusion that the other person is seeking advice on AIDS. Its an uphill task, for this lady, but she should persevere. It may be an old and unworthy profession, but sure is an Essensial Service.

[Reply to this]
Emelita
on September 8th, 2008 10:28 pm

Hi Mary,
This is your old school class mate. (Ward School)Good to see what u are doing. How is your mom and other sisters. U really get fat, but you are still good looking. I thought you were still a Rasta. The last time I saw u (years ago) you had locks.
I will keep in tough and will certainly make a contributions.
Smae old brave Mary……
My belated sympathy on the death of Cindy.

[Reply to this]
optimistic pessimist
on September 8th, 2008 10:54 pm

Seems as if nobody is willing to see beyond the humanitarian aspect of what Ms Edwards is doing. She IS being a humanitarian… NO DOUBT! But her transgression here is that she is also being an ENABLER! Does no one have a problem with this???

I am surrounded by Einsteins… Sigh!… I give up…

[Reply to this]
COSMIKE
In reply to the above comment on September 9th, 2008 7:45 am:
Yes you may as well give up because is only you dancing to your own tune, hopefully you can have acceptance for what good others are trying to do, she did’nt take up arms and try to rob and kill people but instead she is spreading awareness that will definately save lives, AIDS is real.

[Reply to this]
COSMIKE
In reply to the above comment on September 9th, 2008 9:53 am:
I have one more comment for you pessimist, there are three kinds of people in this world, those who wondering what’s happening, those who knows what’s happening and those who makes things happen and thats what Mrs Edwards is doing, making things happen while you’re still wondering what’s happening,you are free to do some volunteer work of your own hopefully for a cause as good as this brave woman,
Small minds discuss people, average minds discuss events and great minds discuss ideas, WHICH APPLIES TO YOU GRAMMAR GOD ?

[Reply to this]
ChocolateCCM
on September 9th, 2008 6:50 am

This article touched my heart very deeply. One, Miss Edwards is trying to do a good thing. Two, these women were forced to become a prostitute. Three, where is the president, is he not seeing the suffering of the people?

I cry shame at them for their inability to provide proper training and job placement for these women.

Finally, where are the men? Men in Guyana needs to be more responsible, you took the woman and got her pregnant, then take care of your responsibility as a man.

I also cry shame at these men who run away from their responsibilities.

I never knew prostitution is legal in Guyana. I MUST SAY THAT IT IS NOT RIGHT TO PROSTITUTE YOUR BODY. IT IS WRONG AND SINFUL. HOWEVER, I WILL NOT DISCRIMINATE OR TEAR DOWN A WOMAN WHO HAS NO OTHER ALTERNATIVE BUT TO DO IT FOR HER OWN SURVIVAL AND THE SURVIVAL OF H ER CHILDREN. I KNOW THESE WOMEN ARE HUMAN BEINGS AS WELL.

SHAME ON THE GOVERNMENT OF GUYANA AND THE MEN.

LET THEM SUPPORT THEIR CHILDREN, WHETHER THEY ARE STILL WITH THE MOTHER OR NOT. THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD CREATE A LAW FOR MEN TO GIVE CHILD SUPPORT TO EACH CHILD THEY BRING INTO THIS WORLD OR ELSE THEY WOULD BE JAILED.
I bare your pains and passion.
Churches should come together and support these women, counsel them, and minister unto their troubled hearts. Churches are not allowed to discriminate against these women, and it is not Christlike. Mary [not His mother] was once there but she got delivered and became one of the most faithful women’s followers for Jesus.

I offer you ladies my prayers, and support in becoming a better person.
——

[Reply to this]
DreamAtlanta
on September 9th, 2008 2:05 pm

It is sad that the goverment is okaying such an organisation with that name. I understand the organisation’s goals however. With AIDS rampant in Guyana and the government unable to afford free and reasonable priced drugs even care for victims of CONTROLLABLE venereal diseases, this is a slap in the face for health care professionals seeking to control the AIDS epidemic back home. In the big and mighty USA, Aids is a sad and serious problem, so little Guyana need to actively make it illegal to work as a sex worker. Although this profession is obviously in the bible, it is tantamount to slavery of one person controlling another’s body for sexual desires. I am ashamed to think this organisation exist to support them, rather them to help them find a way home. Some of these victims are forced into that lifestyle, especially the amerindians and strong fines and jail time should be given to anyone caught subjecting men or women to ply such a trade. Remember being a sex worker is a life of hell forever, no one can ever recover from that. Physically or mentally. Even your children become victims and are unable to think like an normal person after that. They too may think it an okay profession. Its absolutely not okay.

[Reply to this]
El diablo
on September 9th, 2008 9:00 pm

So what if the ladies want to work hard for their money, “things bad in Guyana”. If people don’t like what they are doing,then they should give them the things they need such as “a good job,” clothing, shelter etc. If you can’t help these ladies, then shut up and leave them alone.

[Reply to this]
positivegt
In reply to the above comment on September 11th, 2008 11:25 am:
Well said. These “Judges” should ask Jesus about Mary Magdelene.

[Reply to this]
vatvic
on September 11th, 2008 11:29 am

A brave woman, lets all use the “bricks” in our hands and build a place for the group rather than stoning the person with ridicule.

[Reply to this]
StoneP
on September 11th, 2008 2:25 pm

I think most of us sell ourselves in one way or another to make a buck. These ladies realize that they have a commodity that is in demand and they sell accordingly.

[Reply to this]
realgirl_tessa
on September 12th, 2008 9:59 am

“We have sex workers who would do sex work and sometimes their children would turn to sex work and because the community is so small and we have no job opportunities we have a lot of teenage pregnancies. So I want to work with all these people…”

I agree with the pessimist. While humanitarian work should be commented, we are perpetuating proverty by having such a ridiculous organization like “Kwaikwani sex workers ” These children will gorw up as she clearly says thinking this is normal and following in her footsteps. Their male children will see women as just sexual objects and that will further damage our society..

Sometimes we got to do what we got to do, sometimes you don’t want to go out there and have sex for money but because of your situation… and that is why I don’t discriminate… because I know I was there and I had a reason why I was there.”

If at any time I would prostitue myself it would have to be my life and limb seriously indanger. There are other things these women can do, wash clothes, clean homes, sell 2 sweetie on the streets, they took the easy way out and have endangered themselves, their children, their clients and the larger society.. Besides, she thinks it’s ok to do something illegal just to get by, maybe she should have turned to being a thief.

Edwards said she was also open to guidance from persons in taking her group in the right direction, as she was still new to being a director, and while she had many ideas she needed assistance to execute them.

If I would help, it’s to train these women to do ANYTHING else other than prostitution. It doesn’t take much, sewing, culinary skills, computer skills for the more nimble of mind…that’s where you should be headed and for the sake of humanity, change the name of that organization!!!

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