Female Self Defence Teachers want to hold Safety Forums in Auckland

A national women’s self defence network wants to share some simple techniques to help women feel safer and stronger in light of the two murders in Auckland recently.

“Our hearts go out to the families of Jo Pert and Mrs Tian,” says spokesperson Alison Broad, “and the devastation their loss has on their families.”

Ms Broad acknowledged that while suspects in the killings may be walking the streets, these murders have highlighted the vulnerability of women in their home or on the streets. “Women must be strong and keep on living their lives as normally as possible, however if there is anything we can offer to help them feel a bit more prepared in case of an attack, we will.”

The Women’s Self Defence Network Wahine Toa teaches 5-8 hour courses to more than 10,000 women and girls every year. The Ministry of Social Development has funded courses for school-age girls for nearly 20 years. “We have many stories of women or girls who have thwarted attacks,” says Ms Broad.

“While we cannot bring back either of these two much loved women, if we can provide some short forums to allow women a chance to talk about their fears and to hear about home and street strategies then we have Self Defence teachers prepared to hold these forum for free.”

If any community or business can host up to 100 women for a 2 hour meeting Ms Broad would like to hear from them. Email Alison@ihug.co.nzor visit www.wsdn.org.nz

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