By Peter Berton
CYBERSPACE – In what could be considered a civilian version of the U.S. military’s infamous “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy about homosexuality, social network LinkedIn has barred members from mentioning they work as escorts. The action reportedly occurred after LinkedIn managers discovered “prostitution” listed among the skills for which members may recommend other members.
“Even if it is legal where you are located, [members may not] create profiles or provide content that promotes escort services or prostitution,” LinkedIn’s newly revised user agreement notes. The terms also provide a stern warning that rule transgressors are subject to immediate and permanent banishment from the network.
LinkedIn differs from Facebook, Twitter and other social networks in that LinkedIn is focused on professional networking. Members typically use the platform to connect with potential customers, seek employment or find resources for specific needs. Outlawing one segment of the professional population based on religious or moral grounds instead of legal status seems unjust discrimination.
It’s worth noting the morality police haven’t entirely sanitized LinkedIn just yet. Entering the word “escort” in the social network’s search engine returns links to Sunshine Amour (listed as a Calgary escort), Shyla Wild (professional escort and courtesan) and Emma Alexander (independent escort), among others. Many of the escorts live and work in Canada, where sex work is legal and regulated.
It’s also worth noting that clients may still recommend sex workers as “service providers” by selecting up to “three attributes that describe” the LinkedIn member. Among the options are “great results” and “good value: excellent work at a reasonable cost.” If options like that aren’t ripe for euphemistic interpretation, we don’t know what is.
