Free Speech Coalition Statement on LA Direct and Derek Hay

No performer should have to experience the abuse, coercion, wage theft or fraud detailed by these women, whether at the hands of an agent, manager or producer. Sex work is real work, and sex workers deserve the same professionalism, respect, honesty and consent as any other worker.

Since the allegations of abuse and coercion were filed against Derek Hay, we have stood for the rights of performers. The subsequent stories told by performers on the recent NBC News broadcast are no different.

While we have no specific knowledge of Hay’s actions regarding the allegations, we can say that such behavior is immoral, illegal, and unacceptable. Hay was not a member of Free Speech Coalition, and we do not list him among our licensed talent agents. For years, he has refused to abide by the industry’s testing protocols.

We understand the vulnerable position newcomers to the industry face. To better help them understand their rights and find reputable representation, we have launched the INSPIRE Program, which includes a list of licensed agents.

Free Speech Coalition has long called for the decriminalization of consensual sex work, not only on the moral grounds of allowing private consensual behavior, but to allow sex workers to speak openly about abuse, coercion and theft that flourishes when they are forced to work in the shadows.

Regardless of the outcome of this complaint, Free Speech Coalition will continue to fight aggressively for the rights of all sex workers.