WHO WE ARE
About
PACE Society is a peer-driven organization located in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver that provides support, advocacy, and education by, with, and for current and former sex workers.
Mission
PACE is a peer-driven society that seeks to reduce the harm and isolation associated with sex work through education, support, and advocacy.
We work to increase the health, safety, and empowerment of our members by respecting their right to self-determination and supporting their self-identified needs.
History
PACE was started informally in a one bedroom apartment in Vancouver in 1994 by sex workers and their allies, who recognized that some services for sex workers were best delivered by sex workers.
Vision
We envision a future where all sex workers are free from the risk of violence, discrimination, social stigmas and harms, so they may enjoy the same rights as all other individuals including the rights to
life, liberty, security of the person, and equal protection under the law.
We hope for long-term commitments to social change within all levels of government and individuals to eradicate systemic issues that create disproportionate levels of poverty, homelessness, health concerns and substance use within the Sex Work community so that individuals can make safe, healthy, and informed decisions in their lives.
Core Values
Anti-Oppression
Anti-Colonialism
Sex Work Positivity
Trauma-Informed
Harm Reduction
Experiential Knowledge
Poverty Reduction
Philosphy
PACE Society believes that sex work is work, and as such, is subject to the same rights and safety as any occupation. We work to protect the rights of individuals (of all genders) in all areas of the sex industry to work free from harassment, harm and prosecution. We work to ultimately increase choice among our members and allies. We understand that there are many different forms of sex work and allow our members to self-identify. Our broad definition of sex work includes any erotic, intimate, or sexual activities performed in exchange for basic needs or material gain.
PACE Society takes a rights-based, harm reduction approach to service and program delivery. We provide peer-driven, non-judgmental, and low barrier programs and services that reflect the self-identified needs of our members.
