In a groundbreaking move that challenges both labor norms and societal stigmas, sex workers at Sheri’s Ranch in Pahrump, Nevada, are pushing to become the nation’s first unionized brothel workers. The majority of the 74 workers have submitted a petition to the National Labor Relations Board, seeking representation through the Communications Workers of America.

The unionization effort stems from concerns over a controversial new independent contractor agreement issued in December. This contract would grant the brothel extensive rights to use workers’ likenesses without ongoing consent, potentially impacting their future career opportunities and personal brand.

“We want the same things that any other worker wants. We want a safe and respectful workplace,” said Jupiter Jetson, a worker at the brothel who is leading the unionization efforts. The workers argue they are effectively treated as employees, with set schedules, restricted work environments, and mandatory pricing, despite being classified as independent contractors.

Their demands extend beyond basic workplace protections. The workers seek negotiation rights for intellectual property protections, especially important as many create their own online content. They also want to address workplace dress codes, wage structures, and the absence of health insurance.

This effort is significant in an industry historically marked by marginalization and silence. Experts like Barb Brents, a retired University of Nevada professor, view this as a powerful moment of workers standing up for their rights in a deeply stigmatized profession.

The unionization attempt follows similar labor organizing efforts in the sex work industry. In Los Angeles, dancers at Star Garden became the only unionized group of strippers in the United States, while San Francisco’s now-closed Lusty Lady was an early pioneer in worker organization.

As the legal battle unfolds, the sex workers at Sheri’s Ranch are challenging not just their workplace conditions, but broader perceptions about labor rights, worker dignity, and the fundamental right to organize, regardless of the industry.

The brothel’s management has stated they respect workers’ rights to express views on workplace structure, but the ongoing dispute highlights the complex intersection of labor rights, personal autonomy, and professional dignity in a controversial industry.