In Loving Memory of the Loving Woman Who Coined the Term Sex Work

 Carol Leigh, the woman who coined the term sex work, recently passed away at 71-years-old.  I'm very grateful for having the opportunity to get to know this amazing woman who devoted decades to advocating for the human rights of sex workers.  I first met Carol in 2004 at a sex workers' rights event in Berkeley, California where she was dressed as her flamboyant persona, Scarlot Harlot and performed.   Later, I met her as Carol when we were in somebody's living room putting together advocacy signs.

Carol was kind, compassionate, intelligent, socially conscious, creative, proactive, and a great leader.  Though she was very into political issues, she also had a strong personal side- caring very much about people and how people were treated.  When people were mistreated or feeling bad, she reached out in a way that respected boundaries.  In addition to being around Carol various times in person since we first met in 2004, we also spoke on the phone multiple times at her requests because that's how she was.  She took the time to listen to people, share her insight, and made an effort to understand people's perspectives even if different from hers.  She was also very responsive and responded to messages fast. 

Rest in peace, Carol.  You are greatly missed and your spirit lives on! 

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