Beyond Attendance: A Reflection on Xbiz, Creating Change, and AVN

Conferences and industry events are often seen as spaces for networking, but they can also be opportunities to engage in deeper learning, solidarity, and mutual aid.

❤️ Xbiz (Los Angeles) – Mutual Aid & Industry Advocacy
When we decided to attend Xbiz, wildfires were actively devastating LA. We knew that if we were going to be in this space, we had a responsibility to engage thoughtfully. Before heading out, we coordinated with mutual aid groups in LA to understand their needs, and then decided to bring groceries from Las Vegas to LA, ensuring that community fridges were restocked instead of depleted. Once in LA, we assisted in sorting donations and distributing industry-donated supplies to people who needed them most. We aided grassroots organizations and became aware of ways we can continue to help anytime we are in town.

Inside the conference, we engaged with policy experts and harm reduction advocates on pressing issues affecting the adult industry, including digital censorship, online safety, and the shifting landscape of regulations. These conversations reinforced the importance of ongoing collaboration between advocacy organizations and industry professionals.

🏳️‍🌈 Creating Change (Las Vegas) – Learning from Grassroots Leaders
This was our first time at Creating Change, and we showed up as learners. We listened to policy experts, sex worker advocates, and harm reductionists who have been doing this work long before us. We’re taking those lessons back to our community and thinking critically about how we align our advocacy with broader movements for justice. We were reminded of the importance of intersectionality and the value of diversity in community. 

🏆 AVN (Las Vegas) – Standing with Labor & Engaging with Industry Leaders
Leading up to AVN, we were preparing to adjust our plans due to the Culinary Union’s strike at Virgin Hotels, the event’s host location. In solidarity with striking workers, we had planned to meet with industry professionals outside the event to avoid crossing the picket line. However, when an agreement was reached between the union and the hotel just before the event began, we were able to attend and engage fully.

The conversations at AVN focused on labor justice, safety, and long-term support for industry professionals. With the strike serving as a reminder of the power of collective bargaining, we left with a renewed commitment to aligning with worker-led movements in our advocacy efforts.

Final Thoughts
Showing up isn’t just about being present—it’s about being intentional, accountable, and community-driven. These experiences reinforced our commitment to listening first, moving with humility, and ensuring that our presence contributes rather than takes.