ROSS Coordinator – Ayanna Hall, “The self-defense series has been the biggest highlight for ROSS, starting with the fact that it was a 4-week commitment. It came about from listening to the needs of the community. From intimate partner violence and abuse, to feeling unsafe when staff are not on site. I introduced the idea of a self-defense class and a handful of the residents were interested in taking a class. I wanted to support more than the physical aspect of empowerment through self-defense but also provide them with the tools to also be mentally and emotionally empowered. So, week 1 was intro to the series, opening circle, expectations and such. Week 2 was the actual self-defense class with the non-profit Fight Like A Girrrl Club. Week 3 was a grief workshop with the non-profit OSE, on processing the times we weren’t empowered and how to come together as a community to lift and support each other. Week 4 was a sound bath with a local sound healer, to slow down the nervous system, reduce any stress or anxiety that may have surfaced during the series. Folks left feeling mentally, emotionally and physically stronger and more empowered.”
