Montreal strippers plan strike during F1 weekend

Montreal strippers plan to strike on May 24, the same day the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix is scheduled in the city.

The Sex Work Autonomous Committee said the action is meant to highlight demands that dancers be treated as employees rather than independent contractors. The group noted that the weekend normally brings a sharp rise in business because of the race.

Under current rules, dancers are classified the same way as freelance plumbers, the committee said in a statement. It argued that dancers must answer to club management while still lacking the protections that come with employee status.

The strike would coincide with other major events. The Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600 are also set for May 24. In addition, the Montreal Canadiens could host a playoff game that night if they advance past the Buffalo Sabres.

The committee said the timing is deliberate, using the busiest weekend of the year to press for changes in how the clubs classify their workers.