This commentary is by Henri June Bynx of Montpelier. She is co-founder and co-director of the Ishtar Collective, Vermont’s only organization run by and for sex workers and survivors of exploitation or trafficking.
In 2021, the city councils of Burlington and Montpelier made historic and bold decisions by removing outdated, misogynistic language from their ordinances — and in Burlington’s case, from their city charter — that criminalized consensual adult sex work. This move wasn’t just a legal shift, but a step toward a more inclusive Vermont, one that recognizes the humanity and dignity of every individual. The language that had long prohibited consensual sex work did little to protect the health or safety of residents in either city. Instead, it reinforced harmful stigma and left sex workers more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
As an advocate, I was deeply involved in the debates leading up to the changes. I testified at city council meetings where outside forces tried to stoke fear and perpetuate damaging stereotypes. Opponents of the changes warned that they would have “devastating impacts” that would cause Vermont to become a new Las Vegas, consumed by sex tourism, with sex toys sold on the Burlington waterfront.
But here we are in 2025, and none of those fears have come to fruition. Vermont has remained true to its progressive values, and the sex worker community has been able to emerge from the shadows, contributing positively to society.
What we have learned is that as we move towards a society in which sex workers are treated with dignity, given the right to self-representation, and allowed to work in an environment free from judgement, they give back in ways that benefit everyone.
The Ishtar Collective is proof of this. We began as a small group of survivors and laborers trying to support our neighbors during a global pandemic, and we have since grown into an organization that provides essential services to the broader community. Whether it was distributing clean drinking water during the 2023 floods or providing food through the community fridge in Montpelier, sex workers have stepped up as leaders in times of crisis.
We’ve helped open a new pop-up clinic in Barre City, providing health care access to queer community members, distributing hygiene supplies and offering clothing. Our food justice program has grown as well, with new garden spaces and an increase in local volunteers working alongside staff and members. These programs have been possible because we have made room for marginalized voices, allowing them to lead and advocate for their needs.
Despite these successes, the stigma surrounding sex work remains a significant barrier to full societal acceptance and inclusion. In Vermont, where progress on social justice issues is a constant focus, the shadow of judgment still looms over sex work.
Yet, over the last few years, I’ve seen the power of listening to those directly impacted. When sex workers were given a seat at the table in policymaking, they spoke their truths with courage and conviction, and the community responded with support. I am thankful for the legislators, community leaders, and allies who have listened to those directly impacted.
Our contributions are not just a testament to the resilience of sex workers but a clear indicator of what can be achieved when society provides the space and safety for all individuals to contribute to the greater good.
S.54/H.190, currently pending in Montpelier, would decriminalize consensual adult sex work in Vermont. When we reduce stigma and allow people to thrive without fear of criminalization, we all benefit. The movement toward more inclusive policies for sex workers demonstrates what can be accomplished when we listen, learn and act with compassion.
Read the story on VTDigger here: Henri June Bynx: When sex workers are treated with dignity, they give back in ways that benefit everyone .