Activism
As an economics major, I’m fascinated by how policy shapes real-world incentives—and few issues illustrate that better than sex work. Criminalizing prostitution doesn’t erase demand; it just shifts costs onto the most vulnerable. By studying legalization models and creating interactive projects like Elysia’s Life, I’m exploring how smarter economic and public-health policies could reduce violence, widen access to care, and give workers genuine agency over their livelihoods.
A Practical Case for Legalizing Sex Work
My issue brief shows how laws meant to “protect” sex workers actually push them into greater danger. Using evidence from New Zealand and Europe, I explain how decriminalization cuts violence and disease and gives workers real bargaining power. I outline full legalization with enforceable labor rules, an independent safety board, and a clear wall between voluntary work and trafficking—practical fixes that replace punishment with health and dignity.
Elysia’s Life
Too bored to slog through my issue brief? Me too. Spin up my game instead—the house odds will teach you the same lesson. You drop into pre-legalization Vegas as Elysia, a sex worker dodging cops, rent, and shaky side hustles. Branching chats, a live cash meter, casino temptations, and multiple endings make every choice a gamble, showing firsthand how criminalization piles on risk and why legalization could finally cash out safer.
Elysia’s Life
by Andy Tang
Follow the life of Elysia as she navigates the complexities of Las Vegas.
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