Women's Self-Defense Class Sat. April 16th 2-4 p.m.

Women's Self-Defense Class Sat. April 16th 2-4 p.m.
Pride Community Center (1107 NW 6th St. Suite C)
April 2005

There have been a number of attacks on women in Gainesville recently. Women are often still blamed and held responsible for preventing attacks as evidenced by the debate in The Alligator over the last few months. Rape and sexual assault are part of the larger system of sexism. In addition to waging battles in the media and in the courts, this class encourages women to fight back against male attackers, whether relatives, acquaintances, or strangers.

This is a basic class to teach you how to defend yourself. It will counter the misinformation often given to women. For example, if you've ever been told to hold a key between your fingers as weapon, please forget this bad advice. It will teach you how to free yourself from an assailant (from arm grabs to chokeholds to basic ground fighting). These techniques are based on shaolin karate, a style devised by Chinese nuns and monks. This class is aimed towards women, but male volunteers are welcome.

$5 Requested Donation (this is to cover the room reservation fee). Any additional proceeds will go to MAP conspiracy, a coalition of feminist organizations (including Campus NOW) that are working for over-the-counter access to the Morning-After Pill.

For more information about MAP Conspiracy or Campus NOW, email campus_now@hotmail.com or call 372-2361.

For more information on the class, contact Jessica Livingston, jalivingston88@yahoo.com