The Hokkaido University Faculty of Humanities and Human Sciences Center for Research and Education in Applied Ethics and Philosophy will hold a public symposium, "Prostitutes Speak Out," on November 29th.

In the early modern period, prostitutes such as prostitutes in brothels and women forced into sex work through human trafficking, such as nighthawks and women working for women, emerged throughout the country. In the modern era, the sex trade took on a variety of forms and became significantly more widespread. In the process, numerous works depicting prostitutes, including novels and films, were produced, and prostitutes became subjects of contemplation by others. While historical research has focused on the movement to abolish prostitution, there has been little attention paid to the writings and independent actions of those who lived in brothels and private red-light districts. Using diaries written by early modern prostitutes, novels written by former prostitutes, and materials related to self-help organizations for "panpan" (prostitutes) in the postwar period, this symposium will listen to the stories of prostitutes who have been othered.

For more information, please click here. *You will be redirected to the Hokkaido University Faculty of Humanities and Human Sciences website.