Conclusion: Similarities and Differences
There is one pattern that is stable across all three cultures: public forms of prostitution are the target of stigmatization more than private forms of prostitution. However, the similarities seem to end there. Although the dominant kinship structure in both Paris and California is the nuclear family, engaging in public sex work carries different meanings and ramifications for women's ability to attain that desired network after their previous "deviant" occupation. In Paris, it was nearly impossible for former prostitutes to marry (with the rare exception of women from the upper class.) In California, however, there is not always the inherent desire among street girls to enter into the conventional 'ideal' of marriage. It cannot be taken for granted that prostitutes want to attain that lifestyle. In fact oftentimes, street girls choose to engage in intimate relationships, yet are happy to do so with individuals from the lower class. Instead of pursuing children and a family, they work with their romantic partner to acquire the materials that sustain their current lifestyle (such as money, drugs, and alcohol.) In both of these cultures, we can see how capitalism works to produce these choices and meanings. With the emphasis on class and wealth in Paris (particularly the bourgeosie), prostitutes were shamed primarily because it was assumed that they entered into sex work as a result of coming from the lower class. In California, we can see streetwalkers fending for themselves to make ends meet. Despite the fact that they clearly posess independence (which is such a fundamental component of our Western capitalist economy), public prostitutes are criticized for what they spend their money on as well as for their choice of income. Prostitutes are not considered to be contributing to society in a "respectable" manner.
Tying It All Together: Connections to Kinship
While prostitution is predominantly frowned upon in Paris and California, it can be empowering for females in Nairobi. In Nairobi, prostitution works to give women a sense of independence and self sufficiency while at the same time allowing women to remain close to their relatives. I believe this contrasting viewpoint can in part be attributed to the different kinship structure in Kenya; the low level of emphasis placed on the nuclear family (and the increased focus on extended relatives and community) allowes female sex work to be perceived in a worthier light by using their work to provide for those they care about. Ironically, the women engaging in public prostitution appeared to be helping their families the most despite the higher levels of stigmatization they received relative to their indoor counterparts.