Star Light Ministries

It is time for me, Lia Scholl, to end my tenure as Executive Director at Star Light. I founded Star Light 8 years ago, wanting to change the lives of the women I work with, and instead have found my own life changed.

I am so grateful for all of Star Light’s volunteers and supporters, whether on club teams, on the Board of Directors, as helpers with the Exotic Dancer, M.B.A., office helpers, donors, thinkers, pray-ers, all of you. The future of Star Light is now in the hands of our very capable Board of Directors, a group of folks whom I love. They, too, have a passion for sex workers. They, too, have been changed by the stories of the women we serve. They have already begun implementing a transition plan for the future of Star Light, and I know that Star Light is in good hands.

There so many women I have worked with through the years. Each one changed me in a special way, either changing my thinking, changing my ideals, challenging what I think I know, and I want to post about each. I will be using noms du jour for many of you, but if you’re a public persona, I’ll use your blog name. If you want to know if one of them is you, let me know and I’ll tell you!

Red-Headed One: You were the first. You showed me the beauty, strength and hope that sex workers have. You made me struggle with the idea that sex work can both empower and take away power at the same time. You showed me that all things are possible.

Pebbles: You showed me that sex work can be ministry, too. You told me a story one time, about a senior client who came in on Christmas Eve every year, who was lonely and just needed a caring ear. Your giving spirit never, ever ceases to amaze me.

Kat: Brilliance and feminism, fun and stability, you had it all. I wonder sometimes where you are, who you are, and how you are doing. I hope that you are following your creative dream.

The fiercest, Betty Page make-up mistress ever: You showed me how strip club families can be just that, family. The way you cared for the women you work with and followed through on their needs, and gave the women you worked with an outlet for their creativity has always stayed with me.

Tuesday: You taught me about the racism that is still pervasive in the clubs, but even more than that, you showed me how to persevere and overcome it. If you ever read this, in your very official job, I am so proud of you! And big kisses to your daughter.

C: You are the woman that makes me doubt the fairness of all of life. Some women get all the benefits of a great education, a supportive family, but do very little with it. You got none of the foundations, have had to struggle for every bit of success that you have, and it’s all been an uphill battle. You are the most courageous woman I have ever met. Keep fighting, C. And don’t forget to write!

Veronika: You Rock. Nothing more. Just You ROCK!

Emily Cagel: I never knew you, but your death moved me. I came back to Star Light because I believe that no sex worker should ever be killed, because violence against one woman is violence against all women. I still pray for your family. Thank you for inspiring me. And may you never be forgotten by sex workers and their allies.

Audacia Ray: You make more sense than anyone I have ever met. When I grow up, I want to be you.

Ren: You are power. You are strength. You are woman. I know that your fervor is fueled by love. I would like to be as brave as you.

Lily: You inspire me with your desire for social justice and equality for all people. You inspire me with your brilliance. You inspire me with your sensitivity. You have given me far more than I have ever given you.

Susan: You are one of the most fun people I have ever met. Thank you for being my friend. Margaritas soon, okay?

Avalon: You know, when I think of you, I think of determination. Your intelligence, stick-to-it-ive-ness (I know! It’s not a word!), all the lessons you have learned and shared. I know you’ll go on to more success, and I’m confident you’ll take other sex workers with you. Thank you for teaching me about economic power.

Hidden Dragon: Beauty, brains, and brawn. Congratulations on all you have done, and much success in the future. I’m glad you’re not lonely anymore!

Amanda Brooks: I’m convinced that one day I’m going to say, “I knew her when…” You never let setbacks get you down. I admire your dedication, your spunk, and your heart.

Bridgette: Big kisses, girlfriend. You’re the greatest mom, and your love for your child inspires me. I hope all your dreams come true.

Panther: “Life is difficult. This is the great truth, one of the greatest truths—it is a great truth because once we see this truth, we transcend it.” M. Scott Peck. You are transcendent.

Brooke: Dear Brooke. There’s never been any doubt that I love you, that you are one of the most amazing women I have ever met. I’m so grateful for your friendship, your perspective, and your honesty. Thank you for teaching me, accepting me and putting up with me.

There are so many more. So many special women who have given me so much more than I have ever given them. Even though I am not working for Star Light anymore, you are still in my thoughts, prayers, and heart.