Self-defense is NOT sexual assault prevention

[jellybuttrey]

I write this blog as a sexual assault crisis counselor, a victim advocate, a feminist, an activist, and most of all, as a survivor

Comments

[srakkt]

I *absolutely agree* with everything that you've written here.

I'd go further, even, and point out that the issue of self-defense and the issue of sexual assault prevention are driven by nonoverlapping concerns.

That is to say, there are legitimate reasons to pursue both, (I'm of the opinion that everyone, not just women, ought to be taught how to deal with personal violence) but these things should not be thought of as related - as you rightly point out.

[jellybuttrey]

And I agree with you, too. I was a yellow belt in tae kwon do (oooh, a big bad yellow belt!). I took it for exercise, discipline, self esteem... but it never was toted by my instructor or anyone else for that matter as a way I could fight off an attacker.

[jellybuttrey]

Thank you. :) All good points. You're awesome.