Montreal sex workers strike during Canada Grand Prix

Dozens of sex workers in Montreal took to the streets during the Canadian Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend to demand improved working conditions and the decriminalization of their profession. Protesters gathered downtown on Saturday, May 23, 2026, carrying signs with slogans such as “No to whorephobia” and “This slut deserves safety.”

Ella, a protester who withheld her surname, told AFP that the demonstration was a first for Quebec and highlighted the significant stigmatization faced by sex workers. While selling sexual services is legal in Canada, purchasing them remains illegal. Demonstrators are calling for an end to this "model of partial criminalisation" to enhance their safety.

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We face a lot of stigmatization.

Melina May, co-founder of the Autonomous Sex Work Committee (CATS) and a sex worker, stated that the strike was timed to coincide with the Grand Prix because the weekend is "very profitable for the bosses." The protesters also demanded an end to strip clubs charging sex workers fees to approach clients, noting that these costs can increase significantly during major events like the Grand Prix, sometimes reaching up to 150 Canadian dollars (US$108) for a single shift.

"We don’t want to have to pay to work anymore," said Adore Golman, a 30-year-old CATS activist and sex worker, echoing the sentiment of many who feel exploited by the current system. The strike aimed to bring attention to these issues and advocate for systemic change within the sex work industry.

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We don’t want to have to pay to work anymore.