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Montreal Sex Workers to Go on Strike During Grand Prix Weekend
Organizers say dancers and some massage parlour workers want employee status and labour protections after injuries, unpaid leave and nightly fees.
- On May 23, 2026, Montreal-based sex workers plan to strike during Formula One weekend, demanding recognition as employees entitled to workplace protections. The Sex Work Autonomous Committee organized the action to coincide with one of the city's biggest tourist weekends.
- Most dancers currently lack base salaries and must pay between $40 and $100 nightly in fees to work. Classified as self-employed rather than employees, they receive no workplace protections, paid leave, or safety coverage.
- Francine Tremblay, a lecturer at Concordia University who worked in the industry for 20 years, received a base salary throughout her career. Today's dancers face occupational hazards performing in eight-inch heels on uneven floors without comparable protections.
- By striking during Montreal's busiest tourist weekend, CATS aims to maximize pressure on club owners. Ivy, a member of the committee, said, "This is the first time that we're being vocal about our concerns."
- Kit, a committee member, noted that some workers also seek federal decriminalization of sex work. Workers argue that without employee status, "you don't experience yourself as a legitimate worker" amid the legal grey zone.
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45 Articles
45 Articles
Montreal sex workers are calling for a general strike during the Canada Grand Prix weekend.
·Montreal, Canada
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Canadian Grand Prix: Montreal strippers plan strike for Formula One weekend
Montreal strippers are planning a strike for the weekend of the Canadian Grand Prix, hoping that withdrawing their labour on the busiest night of the year for the city’s strip clubs will help them move towards their goal of full employment rights.
·India
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During the strike, scheduled for Saturday, May 23, some people will refuse to pay attendance fees, while others will not take customers.
·Montreal, Canada
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources45
Leaning Left24Leaning Right6Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution65% Left
Bias Distribution
- 65% of the sources lean Left
65% Left
L 65%
C 19%
R 16%
Factuality
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