Children can not be prostitutes or sex workers!
Words Matter—And So Does the Truth

When we hear the words “child prostitute” or “child sex worker,” we must stop and ask ourselves: Is this the right language? The answer is a resounding NO—because these terms imply that a child can consent to sexual activity in exchange for something of value. Every instance of a child being exploited in the sex trade is child rape, child trafficking, and abuse—not work, not a choice, and never a crime on the child’s part.

Children Cannot Consent to Their Own Exploitation

The legal definition of consent means that a person must have the capacity, understanding, and freedom to make a voluntary decision. Children, by law and by common sense, cannot consent to sex with an adult—ever.

When a child is manipulated, coerced, threatened, or forced into commercial sex, they are a victim of human trafficking, not a willing participant. Even if there is no direct force, traffickers often use psychological manipulation, drugs, or false promises to control their victims. A child may appear to “comply” out of fear, survival, or lack of alternatives—but that is not consent.

Language Shapes Perception—And Justice

Using terms like “child prostitute” places blame on the victim rather than on the traffickers and exploiters. It suggests that a child is making an independent choice, rather than being forced, tricked, or coerced into an abusive situation. This dangerous misconception has led to survivors being arrested, punished, and even labeled as criminals instead of receiving the protection and care they deserve.

Many states in the U.S. have already changed their laws to reflect the truth: children cannot be charged with prostitution. Instead, they are recognized as victims of trafficking, which opens the door to appropriate services rather than criminalization.

Who Are the Real Criminals?

The buyers, traffickers, and exploiters—the adults who pay to sexually abuse children—are the real criminals. Every time someone purchases a child for sex, they are committing a heinous act of abuse and exploitation. Yet, too often, the focus has been wrongly placed on the child rather than on the predators fueling the demand.

How You Can Help Change the Narrative

Challenge the language – Never use terms like “child prostitute” or “child sex worker.” Instead, use the correct terminology: trafficked child, sexually exploited minor, victim of child sex trafficking.

Advocate for survivor-centered policies – Support legislation that ensures children are treated as victims, not criminals, and that traffickers and buyers face the full force of the law.

Educate others – Many people simply don’t realize how damaging these terms are. Share this message with your community, schools, and social circles.

Support survivor-led organizations – Groups like Innocence Freed work to provide aftercare, advocacy, and safe spaces for survivors. Your support helps break the cycle of exploitation.

Final Thought: Children Deserve Protection, Not Labels

Every child deserves safety, dignity, and the opportunity to heal. No child chooses to be exploited. No child should be blamed for their own victimization. And no child should ever be called a “prostitute.”

Let’s change the conversation. Let’s hold the real perpetrators accountable. And let’s ensure that every exploited child is met with justice, compassion, and care.

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