The Republican has reported on numerous street sweeps of prostitutes in both Holyoke and Springfield. Police policy refers to this as part of “quality of life” initiatives, that often results in more aggressive use of force.
(view recent articles here, here, here, and here).
These policies are enacted presumably to improve the quality of life in the neighborhoods of Holyoke and Springfield. However, it is apparent that they do little but fill the jails.
All women, particularly poor, lesbian, queer, trans, and non-white women, should not live with police abuse. Any woman who finds herself out on the streets could easily become a target for prostitution crime by the police. This is why it is critical that we work for safe and empowered communities. Therefore, as an organization, we are dedicated to the safety of women from all violence, especially from the violence that originates from the police and prison systems.
Do you feel that you have been unfairly targeted by the police? If so, please contact us.