A group that supports sex workers in Vancouver has announced its closure, “with heavy hearts.”
PACE, a sex workers’ rights and advocacy group, is closing, and it’s blaming a lack of funding as the reason.
“PACE was started informally in a one-bedroom apartment in Vancouver in 1994 by sex workers and their allies, who recognized that some services for sex workers were best delivered by sex workers,” the website states.
A statement on the website says that, despite the group’s best efforts, it hasn’t been able to secure a new funding source, and it will close at the end of the month.
“As a result, we’ve had to make the difficult decision to close our doors after 31 years of operation. Our final day of programming will be July 31st. Out of deep respect and care, we have tried to inform our members directly, in a trauma-informed way, before sharing this update more broadly.”
One of the key factors behind PACE’s inability to secure additional funding was the fact that the group had lost its charitable status. PACE states that it is awaiting a determination from the Canada Revenue Agency regarding the reinstatement of its charitable status.
“We are truly sorry to everyone in the community for this state of affairs — and for the uncertainty, frustration, and grief the news of this service closure will cause. PACE has been a vital safe space and lifeline for our community — offering essential programs and services that have supported countless people over the past 31 years.”
Although it’s shutting down at the end of the month, the statement indicates that PACE is seeking ways to “revive” and “sustain” the organization.
PACE is encouraging the community to keep the spirit of the organization alive by forming “mutual aid circles” and support systems.
“This work didn’t start here, and it doesn’t end here.”
As part of the closure announcement, PACE calls on all levels of government to provide more sustained funding for peer-led organizations.
“Peer-led groups like PACE are often the first and only point of support for people navigating stigma, criminalization, poverty, and systemic violence,” PACE said.
“We are committed to doing everything we can to get PACE back on its feet,” PACE adds.
PACE’s statement further notes that the group will not provide additional commentary or participate in interviews with the media.