Boozy Lectures Presents The Gig-workification of Sex Work

From street to screen, how technology has transformed sex work, the dangers it created, and the protections that haven't kept up.Technology has fundamentally reshaped how sex work operates moving it off the street and onto platforms, turning it into a gig economy. But as Canada pushes to better protect gig workers, sex workers are largely left out of the conversation.This lecture unpacks how we define sex work, why the online vs. offline distinction matters, the dangers of online sex work, and what's at stake when platforms profit while workers lack basic legal protections, including something as fundamental as copyright over their own content.Natassia D’Sena is an educator, researcher, and part-time potter. Beginning her PhD in Sociology at the University of Calgary this fall, her work focuses on sexual and gender-based labour. Specifically, her research challenges our current understanding of what constitutes "sexual labour," overviews the legal and social impacts of viewing this type of work differently, and pushes for legal and policy changes to protect sex workers' rights.This lecture is ticketed $10, which includes a drink of your choice at Semantics Café. Due to venue capacity, tickets help us keep an accurate head count. If the $10 isn't in the budget, no explanation needed email or DM us and we'll issue a free ticket (drink not included). Most importantly we remain committed to making academic topics accessible.Please note this is an 18+ event, no minors permitted.This is THE lecture to be at!📍 Semantics Cafe 1010 1st St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0X8🕕 Saturday, May 23, 2026, 9:00 AM MTDoors open at 9:00 AM MT. Lecture begins at 9:30 AM.Please Note: This event will be video and audio recorded.***If you reserved a ticket and can no longer attend, we ask that you please cancel your ticket so your fellow scholar on the waitlist can take your place.Thank you for looking out for your fellow scholars!