Sex workers in Nevada fighting to become first in U.S. to unionize

In Pahrump, Nevada, the fight for labor rights has taken an unexpected turn as sex workers at Sheri’s Ranch, one of the state’s oldest brothels, seek to become the nation’s first unionized sex workers. Prostitution is legal at licensed brothels in 10 of Nevada’s rural counties, including Sheri’s Ranch, which is located about an hour’s drive away from Las Vegas.

The majority of the brothel’s 74 sex workers have submitted a petition to unionize with the National Labor Relations Board under the name United Brothel Workers, represented by the Communications Workers of America. The drive for unionization was triggered by a new independent contractor agreement issued in December, which would give the brothel the power to use the women’s likeness without permission, even after they no longer work there.

The workers at Sheri’s Ranch, who refer to themselves as courtesans, are pushing for better working conditions and rights. They are concerned about the brothel’s control over their intellectual property and power of attorney, which they feel could make it difficult for them to leave the industry and pursue other opportunities. The new contract also stipulates that the brothel will have the rights to distribute the women’s material without their consent.

The women are advocating for recognition as employees rather than independent contractors to gain access to full rights and bargaining power. They are also seeking protection for their intellectual property, negotiation over dress codes, fairer wage contracts, and even health insurance, which they are currently not provided.

The success of the unionization effort may hinge on the classification of the workers as independent contractors or employees. While the brothel argues that the independent contractor status is essential for the workers’ autonomy, the women contend that they are treated as employees, with set schedules, restrictions on where they can work, and a requirement to charge a minimum of $1,000 per hour to clients.

In a historically stigmatized industry where workers have often kept a low profile, the bold move by the Sheri’s Ranch courtesans to unionize is seen as a significant step towards asserting their rights. With the support of the Communications Workers of America, the sex workers are determined to fight for better working conditions and fair treatment in a profession that has long been shrouded in secrecy and exploitation.