Red Light Walking Tour

Sex work, especially in its most visible forms, tends to be recognized as a problem, requiring intervention and eradication. As a major transportation hub and port city, many sectors of Montreal’s economy were intertwined with the sex trade, even as police and politicians manipulated social responses (positive and negative) to the presence of a thriving Red Light District. From Maimie Pinzer to Harry Ship and through to the present day, this tour explores the social, economic, labour, cultural, racial, and gender history of Montreal through its former Red Light, which for decades thrived in the heart of Montreal’s burgeoning Jewish community.

This tour covers 150 years and 10 city blocks over 1.5-2 hours. The tour begins on the southeast corner of Boulevard René Lévesque and Boulevard St. Laurent and ends near St. Laurent metro station. The tour will be taking place in English.

Tickets are $21 general admission and $10 for students. Spots are limited, and tickets can be purchased only in advance using this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/red-light-tour-tickets-119139283805

All tour group participants must sign a health and safety waiver ahead of their tours, which will be sent out following purchase of tickets. All tour participants must wear a mask or face shield during the tour, and social distancing will be maintained throughout.