Women Empowered Through Self-Defense Classes

In Moline, Illinois, Spellious Martial Arts Center offers a free weekly self-defense class for women aged 14 and up, emphasizing practical skills and confidence building. Participants have reported feeling empowered to intervene in dangerous situations, such as one participant who was prepared to help a woman being attacked. Meanwhile, in Traverse City, a similar women-only self-defense class is being held to instill confidence and teach self-defense techniques. Additionally, over 100 students in Accra, Ghana, were educated on gender-based violence (GBV) through an initiative aimed at encouraging youth to speak out against such issues. This program, part of a U.S. State Department project, clarifies the various forms of GBV and the importance of awareness. These efforts across different regions highlight a growing commitment to empowering women and combating violence against them.