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Class Resources and What to Expect

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Rose City Self-Defense
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Class Resources

  1. Do you have questions about the health of your relationship?
  2. Part of self-defense preparation is knowing the difference between intuition and bias. Learn more about your implicit biases by taking these tests.
  3. What are some alternatives to calling law enforcement? Consider putting these into your phone contacts for easy access:
    1. 988: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (anything mental health related)
    2. Call to Safety: 888-235-5333
    3. Portland Police Non-emergency Line: 503-823-3333
    4. Portland Street Response operates by calling 911 and dispatchers route the call to PSR if there is a mental health concern by someone who is outside of a building. See details and hours by going to PSR’s website.
  4. What are your boundaries?
    1. What is important to you?
    2. What makes you uncomfortable?
    3. What do you want to keep private?
    4. How do you want to be touched?
    5. What makes you feel respected?
    6. Have you identified any “deal-breaker” behaviors?
    7. Are there things that trigger a trauma response?
    8. Is this a reason for a boundary or is it a bias? Think about the difference between intuition and bias. Our prejudices are not reasons for boundary setting.
  5. Right To Be (bystander intervention information).
  6. National Domestic Violence Hotline - Internet Safety.

What to Expect

  • Please arrive promptly so we can get class started on time.
  • Snacks provided!
  • Bring your own water bottle.
  • Make sure you can attend all three sessions in order.
  • Dress comfortably and in layers. There are many “talking” sections as well as physical skills sections.
  • Class material might be activating/triggering to people who have experienced assault, abusive relationships, and/or violence. The content can also bring up emotions even if you haven’t experienced any of these things. You can participate in class activities at your comfort level. If you have questions about specific content, you are welcome to contact us in advance at rosecityself-defense@portlandoregon.gov
  • Communicate with your volunteer instructors if there is anything that would make class safe for you.
  • You will receive an email reminder a few days before class with a pre-course survey.
  • Have a wonderful class!
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