The red umbrella holds significant symbolism within the community of sex workers and their allies. It first gained prominence during the December 2007 Campaign for the human rights of sex workers, organized by members of SWAN (Sex Workers' Rights Advocacy Network).
The origins of the red umbrella as a symbol can be traced back to the First World Congress of Sex Workers held in Venice, Italy in 2001. This historic event, which took place as part of the 49th Venice Biennale, was an art installation created by the Slovenian artist Tadej Pogacar. It provided a platform for sex worker groups and individuals from various countries, including Taiwan, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Italy, Germany, USA, and Australia, to share their experiences and advocate for the civil rights of sex workers.
During the Congress, a powerful demonstration called the Red Umbrellas March was organized. Sex workers took to the streets of Venice, brandishing red umbrellas and using megaphones to draw attention to the harsh working conditions and human rights violations they endure. The march commenced at the Pavilion tent and traversed through the city center, symbolically connecting the historical legacy of Venetian courtesans, such as Veronica Franco and Gaspara Stampa, to the present-day struggles faced by sex workers.
Following this impactful event, the red umbrella gained recognition as a symbol of resistance to discrimination within the sex worker community. In 2005, the International Committee on the Rights of Sex Workers in Europe (ICRSE) officially adopted the red umbrella as a powerful emblem representing the fight against discrimination.
Since then, the red umbrella has been embraced by sex worker communities worldwide, resonating as a universal symbol for the protection and advocacy of sex workers' rights. Its significance lies in the combination of the color red, symbolizing beauty and strength, and the umbrella, representing a shield against the assaults and injustices faced by sex workers. It signifies their collective resistance against abuse perpetrated by the police, pimps, customers, and a society marred by ignorance and prejudice.
Through the widespread adoption of the red umbrella, a simple yet potent idea has transformed into a global symbol, unifying sex workers and their allies in their ongoing struggle for human rights, dignity, and fair treatment.