Mass Now? Why not NOW?

In Massachusetts, a significant gap exists in the fight for justice and equity: major women’s organizations have yet to endorse the proposed decriminalization bill for sex work. They say they won’t sign the bill without more research. I agree, so lets get a close look at this bill!! Like real close. What do we have to do to make this research happen? I say the urgency of this issue demands immediate attention and active engagement. The bill offers a rare opportunity to address systemic harm and exploitation in sex work, but its lack of support from these influential groups risks leaving critical voices unheard.

The hesitation to endorse decriminalization often stems from valid concerns about safety, exploitation, and long-term consequences. When speaking to them over the phone, they claimed they would have to do “extensive research” and then “consult their constituents.” By failing to act, women’s organizations risk aligning with policies perpetuating harm rather than challenging the systemic inequities they seek to dismantle. In the face of an oppressor, doing nothing is the same as siding with them.

Critics argue that the decriminalization bill may contain flaws benefiting capitalist interests over the well-being of sex workers. They say the bill may not adequately protect workers from corporate exploitation. This is all the more reason for women’s organizations to scrutinize and shape the legislation actively. Their participation could ensure that the bill reflects the needs of sex workers (women) rather than the profit motives of hidden stakeholders. Women’s organizations can engage their constituents and bring transparency to potential capitalist agendas, advocating for a model that centers on women’s safety, autonomy, and rights.

Moreover, the silence from women’s organizations risks alienating the very communities they aim to support. They say they represent the voices of women across Massachusetts, but I say their lack of action on this issue leaves sex workers marginalized and unheard. These organizations could build a stronger, more informed position by consulting their members and constituents—especially those directly affected by the current laws. They could amplify the voices of sex workers who are often excluded from policymaking, ensuring the legislation aligns with their lived realities.

It’s time for women’s organizations in Massachusetts to take the lead in this conversation. They say decriminalization is too complex to endorse without more research. Yes it is so ladies get get places like Mass Now to do this research!! By engaging with the bill and centering the voices of those most affected, these organizations have the power to transform it into a genuinely progressive and equitable piece of legislation. Sex worker organizations intentionally avoid women’s organizations (both meetings and interactions on any level) because they know that women’s organizations, policies, and interests do not align. Women’s organizations must recognize that their leadership is not just necessary but vital in this historic moment.