For Immediate Release:

Media contact: MF Akynos

www.blacksexworkercollective.org

PressKit/photos: https://www.facebook.com/events/240622983352221/permalink/240647260016460/

International Whores Day Burlesk Show (May 31)

The Essence of Koffee Burlesque and Variety show is going to let it all hang out in benefit of the Black Sex Worker Collective on Thursday May 31 at 9 pm. The event will take place at at the historically significant Essence Bar in Crown Heights (1662 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213) and will feature master twerker Jantina, spoken word artist Rude Bwoy, sexy dancer Lucy Risque, illustrator and author Jacq the Stripper, and burlesk darling Audrey Loved. The evening is hosted by the founder of the Black Sex Worker Collective founder and “beast of burlesk” MF Akynos.

“International Whores Day commemorates the bold action of sex workers in the 1970s who occupied a place of worship to fight for their rights,” says MF Akynos, “and we are joining that tradition by performing at the Essence Bar in celebration of sex workers and sex worker rights. We will be bringing every trick of the performance trade we have to thrill the audience and raise funds for the Black Sex Worker Collective. The collective provides a safe space where the unique experiences and needs of Black sex workers are validated and addressed.”

MF Akynos who has been an advocate for the rights of sex workers for more than a decade, explains that this International Whores Day matters more than ever due to new legal backlash against sex workers nationwide. “Right now sex workers have lost their livelihood–are forced to make a choice between making rent and being able to eat–due to the recent FOSTA/SESTA legislation that restricts online speech and has closed down advertising sites,” explains MF Akynos, “Black sex workers are among the most harmed. Any money raised will be poured into the support of these sex workers.”

Funds will be raised by a suggested donation at the door of $20 and the night will include glamorous raffles in benefit of the Collective. Merchandise will also be available for purchase. Donate directly to the Collective at www.blacksexworkercollective.org/

Attendees may also join the collective for a day of action on June 2 from noon to 3pm. There will be a staged storming of Judson church, followed by a “whore in a box” display which allows the public to receive baluable and truthful information directly from sex workers. Merchandise will also be available for sale on this day.