As per Wikipedia, The red umbrella has become an important symbol for December 17: "First adopted by Venetian sex workers for an anti-violence march in 2002, red umbrellas have come to symbolize resistance against discrimination for sex workers worldwide.".

( more on the day added as it progresses )

[this event is X-Posted by Bialogue from various sources including but not limited to the SWOP-USA, PONY and SWANK]

December 17th is the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. This day calls attention to hate crimes committed against sex workers all over the globe and appeals to the conscience of those who thru their silence, indifference or ill informed judgemental and prohibitionist attitudes implicitly allow this violence to continue.

( learn about this international event )

( find an event in your area of the world )

( read and learn about the issues )
( Annie Sprinkle offers Ten Things You Can Do to Participate )