This cluster event is close to my heart as a former participant, turned practitioner, in cultural exchanges. Decades ago, while living in Spain, and later, while living in Japan, I was followed and attacked. Luckily, walking with a partner freed me from the first attacker and later, my wits and my legs got me out of the second incident. I’m one of the lucky ones. And as one, this particular cluster meeting’s contents are full circle moments, empowering the next generation.
The World Health Organization estimates that 1 in every 3 women in the world experience violence and these stats have not improved over the past decade. While overseas, young women are an especially vulnerable population to acts of violence. It is the world we live in and it is happening everywhere. The good news is that people like Officer Craig and the Bellevue Police are doing something to help combat these statistics in a real way.
Over the weekend, a group of au pairs from Poland, Thailand, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, France, and South Africa learned the techniques. From using our strong voice, to standing firm so as to not fall and in the right direction leaving the option open to run, Officer Craig reviewed the jiu jitsu mechanics that could help if we are overpowered. Using frames with our arms, the power of our strong legs and closing the gaps (getting closer to an assailant when needed) to lessen impacts.
We are so grateful to the Bellevue Police Department and to people like Officer Craig who work in this proactive way “to protect and to serve citizens” and visitors of WA. These young women are just starting their practice and it’s because of free workshops such as these that women might be safer, walking the streets of any town.
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