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The UMass LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group will host a Queer Self-Defense Workshop on June 13, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. in the Campus Center Auditorium.

The hands-on workshop, led by a queer instructor, is designed for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies to learn practical self-defense. It will cover de-escalation, using your voice, identifying dangerous situations, and basic blocks, kicks and strikes, all while considering different body types and abilities. Participants will also learn tips for adapting movements and using everyday objects for defense. 

The workshop will be facilitated by Ember Skye Kanelee, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Sociology and research manager in the UMass Amherst Donahue Institute’s Economic and Public Policy Research Unit. Kane-Lee has over 14 years of self-defense experience from a range of martial arts including Judo, Jujitsu, Aikido and Isshin-Ryū, as well as combat sports including folkstyle wrestling and boxing. They’ve taught self-defense to a range of audiences across the east coast and are excited to offer a practical, hands-on version of the class to their local UMass queer community.

No prior experience is necessary, and participants are asked to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes and to bring water.

Registration is required and is limited to 40 participants. For questions or more information, contact erg-lgbtq@umass.edu.