U Of M Study On Strip Clubs Finds VIP Rooms Most Unsafe For Entertainers
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The Minneapolis City Council is taking a close look at the safety of entertainers at strip clubs.
A team of researchers from the University of Minnesota just completed a first-of-its-kind study on the conditions that exotic dancers work in. The research is tied to a recent investigation by the Minneapolis health department, which found problems with cleanliness in adult clubs.
Test results on stains of concern showed the presence of semen on chairs, tables, floors and walls.
In Minneapolis, many of the entertainers who perform erotic dance routines in adult clubs say their work has become increasingly hazardous. In a new report, they describe customers pushing the limits and assaulting them, and say as independent contractors they have little to no worker protections.
Tawyna "Sweetpea" Konobeck says she has worked as an adult entertainer for many years.
"I want this to feel as though we can speak up. There are ways to do it within the club level first, and it if that doesn't work, to go beyond," Konobek said.
Konobeck says she's worked as an adult entertainer for many years and wants the safety hazards addressed. Complaints from strip club workers and health inspectors prompted a study by the U's Urban Research Outreach and Engagement Center.
"This is a legal industry and workers in a legal industry should have a safe and supportive environment free from harassment and assault," Dr. Lauren Martin, a University of Minnesota researcher, said.
U of M researchers developed an online survey so that adult entertainers in Minneapolis could share their concerns anonymously. The findings revealed there is little to no training for adult entertainers, but lots of unwanted groping and pressure to engage in sex.
"They want to make money, they want to have healthy businesses. I don't think the owners and managers are the bad guys here but I think it is time to revisit things and see what needs to be change," Konobeck said.
City council members say they are looking at a couple of city ordinances that pertain to adult entertainment businesses to see what can be done to improve worker safety.