Springfield Gardens, NY – In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers is partnering with TKO Fitness, Queens Defenders, Bent Not Broken, 100Suits, NYPD Community Affairs, and Queens Preparatory High School to host a special self-defense training class, “Take Back Your POWER”. The event will teach the fundamentals of boxing, mixed martial arts, and the discipline required to combat violence, empowering attendees with practical skills for self-defense. The event is open to all genders.
In 2022, the number of domestic violence victims increased by 8.5% in New York City, relative to 2019. Domestic violence continues to be a pervasive issue in New York City, with the NYPD responding to approximately 230,000 incidents annually. This self-defense class offers a hands-on approach to personal safety and raising awareness about domestic violence, while fostering community resilience.
“The fight against domestic violence requires a community-wide effort, and that means not only raising awareness but equipping individuals with the tools they need to defend themselves,” said New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. “This self-defense training is an opportunity for us to empower our community, teach essential skills, and remind survivors that they have the strength to take back their power.”
Principal Avionne Gumbs of Queens Preparatory Academy
The “Take Back Your POWER” self-defense class will take place at Queens Preparatory Academy, at 143-10 Springfield Boulevard in Springfield Gardens, NY on Thursday, October 10th from 6:30-8:30pm. This event is free and open to the public, and all community members are encouraged to participate and learn more about how they can protect themselves and support efforts to combat domestic violence.
Media Contact for Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers:
Julian Martin | jmartin@council.nyc.gov
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