For more than a century posters have given visual expression to the reach of public health. Appropriating the techniques of consumer culture, their messages have advertised everything from hand-washing to hair-nets, from vaccination to X-rays. Produced by government departments and community organisations, posters have had a role in combating infectious disease, drugs, and poor nutrition, and in promoting healthy habits, workplace safety, and sexual health.

Even in the late 20th century, posters remain an important means for conveying health messages or for informing where health services can be sought. The posters often supplement wider campaigns conducted through newspaper and television advertising, on the internet, or through the circulation of pamphlets and information booklets.

The 'Safety, dignity, unity and respect' poster is aimed at a very particular audience. Featuring a photograph of a group of people in a relaxed party atmosphere, it advertises the services provided by the Sex Workers Outreach Project (SWOP) in New South Wales.

SWOP is a community based organisation established in Sydney in 1990. It aims to minimize the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (including HIV/AIDS) and provide health, information and support services for sex workers and their managements, clients and partners. It is funded by the NSW Department of Health, Workcover NSW, the NSW Attorney General's Department, and auspiced by ACON (AIDS Council of NSW).

Reference:
Sex Workers Outreach Project
www.swop.org.au

Source:

Powerhouse Museum

Location:

Australia

Longitude:

135.0

Latitude:

-25.0