Between dirty work, exploitation and exclusion: reflections on prostitution and informality in Brazil based on the experiences of trans and transvestite women in the sex market

Abstract

Prostitution is widely framed as ‘dirty work’ in discussions about the labor market, a concept introduced by Everett Hughes to describe occupations that, although diverse and essential, carry social stigma. These activities range from jobs considered arduous or hazardous to those marked by connotations of immorality or crime, such as prostitution. This essay analyzes, through a bibliographic review, the prostitution of transgender and travesti women, investigating how moral values influence the lack of regulation of this activity and perpetuate the exploitation of marginalized minorities. The discussion aims to reflect on the role of morality in sustaining the status quo and evaluate to what extent regulation can contribute to the dignity of these workers, addressing historical stigmas and inequalities.