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The new self-defence workshop empowering LGBTQ+ people
A Bristol dojo is running new a self-defence workshop to empower and support the city’s LGBTQ+ community.
On Saturday November 13th, Bristol’s Shorinji Kempo Dojo will be conducting a self-defence class, in partnership with LGBTQ+ Personal Trainer Millie Morfitt, founder of Bristol’s first LGBTQ+ centred circuit training group.
is needed now More than ever
Participants will take part in a high-energy circuit training session led by Millie, before learning a series of simple, yet effective self-defence techniques from Sensei Nicki Higgins, 4th dan black belt and leader of Shorinji Kempo Dojo.
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Millie and Nicki were inspired to develop this workshop after learning that one in five LGBTQ+ people have experienced a hate crime within the last 12 months.
In fact, the Galop 2021 Hate Crime report showed that over a third of respondents experienced anti-LGBTQ+ violence or abuse at least weekly; these disturbing statistics highlight the need for safe spaces to learn self-defence skills.
Participants will not only learn techniques that will enable them to escape grabs and holds from assailants, but also empower them to feel safe and confident in public.
Sensei Nicki Higgins, 4th dan black belt and leader of the Bristol Shorinji Kempo Dojo. Image via Bristol Shorinji Kempo Dojo.
Strong community links are an important part of confidence as an LGBTQ+ person, and so those who attend are invited to join for lunch at local Italian restaurant Florence after the session to foster connections and further build on these feelings of empowerment from the workshop.
In order to give back to the community, 50% of all ticket proceeds will be donated to a Bristol LGBTQ+ charity; people can vote for one of three when they purchase their ticket.
Attendees can choose between Off The Record’s Freedom programme, QTIPoC social group Kiki, and Pride Without Borders, which supports LGBTQ+ people seeking asylum in Bristol.
Allies of the LGBTQ+ community are also welcome to join the session, and it’s suitable for people of all fitness levels.
Tickets are available on Eventbrite, £7/ £5 concession.
Main image: Bristol Shorinji Kempo Dojo.
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