Renee Olstead received a surprise honor on Saturday night while attending Wisconsin’s annual Socialist Anti-Gala at Milwaukee’s Turner Hall:: an official citation from the Wisconsin State Assembly recognizing both her advocacy for sex workers’ rights and her historic Penthouse Pet of the Year win.
Presented by Representatives Ryan Clancy, Francesca Hong, Darrin B. Madison and Christian Phelps, the citation acknowledges Olstead as a “committed activist for Sex Worker Rights both in Wisconsin and California,” and congratulates her on becoming the first person from Wisconsin to earn the title of Penthouse Pet of the Year.
“I was completely surprised” said Olstead of the commendation. “I’ve been so inspired by the community leaders I’ve met since moving to Wisconsin and I look forward to standing alongside them in support of Wisconsin’s upcoming decrim proposals.” “We’ve got a hard fight ahead” she adds, “and it means so much to know that our community has so many advocates willing to stand with us in the fight for our rights.”
In addition to her work in entertainment, Olstead is one of the few therapists in the country who works pro bono with sex workers and has been active with mutual aid and legislative advocacy efforts through SWOP LA, SWOPChi, DecrimSexWorkCA, and The Coalition for American Sex Workers (CASW – LOCAL 304), which Olstead founded in 2024. Her activism includes fundraising for mental health resources, testifying against harmful legislation, and advocating for incarcerated sex workers in the Midwest.
The citation, signed at the Wisconsin State Capitol on April 19, 2025, celebrates both Olstead’s creative achievements and her commitment to meaningful change.
Learn more about Renee Olstead at xorenee.com.
