Prep for NFL draft in Pittsburgh includes sexual violence prevention

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With the 2026 NFL Draft countdown clock ticking away, Pittsburgh is preparing for an influx of visitors, and local crisis center Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) is concerned that may bring an uptick in sexual violence. Large sporting events mean business for the sex work industry, said Theresa Nightingale, executive director of For Safer Sex Work Pittsburgh. That does not necessarily mean increased sex trafficking, despite common conceptions, she said. Last two draft hosts took precautionsConcerns in Pittsburgh mirror those of recent draft hosts. (Photo by Stephanie Strasburg/PublicSource)Decriminalization encourages sex workers to seek help from law enforcement without risk of arrest or lofty fines, said City Councilor Barb Warwick, who introduced the safer sex work legislation.