Brazil: New book explores history of sex workers' movement

Social scientist Carol Bonomi has released a new book, ‘Mulher da vida, é preciso falar: um estudo do movimento brasileiro de trabalhadoras sexuais’, published by Editora Telha. The work investigates the history and political mobilization of organized sex workers in Brazil, challenging long-standing stigmas of marginality and victimization.

Based on research conducted during a Master’s in Political Science at Unicamp, the study analyzes approximately three decades of the movement’s history. It focuses on organizational structures, demands for rights, relationships with the State, and collective action strategies. The book highlights sex workers as political subjects rather than mere subjects of external debate.

The research references historical milestones such as the first National Meeting of Prostitutes held in Rio de Janeiro in 1987, organized by figures including Gabriela Leite and Lourdes Barreto. The book addresses ongoing issues including professional recognition, institutional violence, autonomy, public policy, health, and sexual freedom.