Defy! LGBTQIA+ Self Defense Course

Collar City Pride & Refuge Event Space are proud to be hosting a Defy! LGBTQIA+ Self Defense Course with WenDo Women NY! We are proud to offer a powerful evening for LGBTQIA+ Identified Folx (16+) of all gender identities & abilities in Troy, NY. Don't miss the opportunity to connect with others and celebrate our power through a Defy! LGBTQIA+ Self Defense Introductory Course.

In an effort to welcome people of all circumstances, we are proud to offer a limited number of "Pay What You Can" tickets for this event. These are available as self-determined need and on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Message from Your Self Defense Instructor, Kristi Taylor:

As a certified WenDo Women's Self Defense Instructor, Canada's oldest self defense program for women/girls, I am thrilled to be expanding that work to providing Defy! LGBTQIA+ Self Defense for community members of all gender identities. Defy! Programs are specifically designed to present self defense from an anti-oppression, feminist, and empowerment framework that acknowledges the particular experiences of LGBTQIA+ Folx. Techniques are designed for people of all ages, fitness levels, body types, and abilities including individuals who use assistive devices. Courses offer a combination of discussion, with practical physical skills resulting in an integration of mental and physical preparedness while expressly rejecting victim blaming or "rule setting".

This introductory course will include:

• Discussion designed to challenge the myths and stereotypes on our capabilities & worth,
• Verbal self defense
• Various physical self defense strategies including strikes with our hands and feet,
• Select body hold releases and blocks

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Refuge Event Space, 1813 5th Avenue, Troy, United States