In this episode, we’re joined by the founder of Rising Red Lantern, a collective supporting Asian Migrant Sex Workers here in Victoria. The Rising Red Lantern is a direct response to the violence of raids, racism, isolation, state neglect, and the ongoing injustices experienced by Asian migrant sex workers.
Through Rising Red Lantern, community members are building power together in a system that was never designed for them — creating spaces to amplify voices, strengthen cultural connection, share political knowledge and skills, and lead resistance driven by those most impacted. Right now, Rising Red Lantern is raising $60,000 to sustain this work over the next year. The fundraiser will support Vixen’s Asian migrant peer frontline responses — where trusted peer workers from within the community provide culturally informed support, resources, and care. The funding will also go toward community events, advocacy campaigns, skill-sharing, and resources for the Victorian Asian migrant sex worker community.
This work also honours the lives of Yuqi Luo, Hyun Sook Jeon, and Yuko, whose deaths reflect the broader patterns of injustice, racism, and misogyny that migrant women continue to face. Their lives mattered, their stories matter, and this community continues to organise in their memory.
In a world that too often tries to erase migrant voices, Rising Red Lantern is choosing to raise its red lanterns together. If you’d like to support the fundraiser, you can find the donation link below.
Nita Okoko, Zoe, Fiza Zali, Madhvi Thakur & A.M. Haritha.
