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What is self-defense?
Many people think of self-defense as what they would do if someone jumped them in a parking lot or dark alley.
We do teach ways to fight off an attacker. But self-defense is much more than that! It is a set of skills-verbal, emotional, mental, and physical-that you can use to keep yourself safe, claim your space, set limits, say no, heal from past abuse or attacks, and live the life you want to live. (See "Have you ever had to use it?") more»
Why self-defense?
Whether or not you live in a high-crime area, attack is unfortunately a possibility. For women especially, most assaults don't come from strangers in parking lots-they come from friends, acquaintances, romantic partners, or family members. more»
I have the right…
What are your rights? Students in a recent class wrote these. Consider making a list for yourself—it can be affirming, and it can help you when you're feeling shaky or unsure.
- To a violence-free life
- To ask for help
- To be on my own
- To be safe in my own home
- To be unsure
- To be treated as an equal to all other adults
- To be true to myself
- To be wrong
- To care for myself
- To feel comfortable in my body
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To walk among men without cat calls and booty stares
- To change my mind
- To come into my home at night without fear
- To feel like my ideas are worthy of respect
- To defend myself
- To be angry
