The American Women's Self Defense Association

713 North Wellwood Avenue Lindenhurst, NY 11757, USA. 516-225-6262 888-STOP RAPE

What is AWSDA?

AWSDA is an organization of women and men dedicated to furthering women's awareness of self defense and rape prevention. The founders and many members have law enforcement experience, and some are martial artists who train police officers in defensive tactics as well as ordinary female citizens in basic self defense skills. Although AWSDA is primarily a women's organization, men contribute significantly and are welcome as both instructors and participants at the annual instructors' conference. AWSDA also promotes responsible and skilled firearms ownership.

AWSDA's motto:
"You have an absolute right to defend yourself."

Who can belong to AWSDA?

AWSDA welcomes anyone who supports the growth and improvement of women's self defense. Self defense instructors, law enforcement professionals, rape crisis counselors and other workers in victim services agencies findAWSDA a source of information and networking.

Why was AWSDA formed?

A group of women who were actively involved in women's self defense saw an opportunity to bring together people from all over the country who share the same interest and goals. Unlike many existing women's martial arts organizations, AWSDA was formed for both men and women to promote and encourage women's self defense.

What does AWSDA do?

AWSDA promotes greater awareness about women's self defense and rape prevention through its quarterly newsletter and conferences. AWSDA members are encouraged to explore new teaching techniques and concepts, and share strategies for promoting women's self defense in their communities through the newsletter and at the yearly instructors' conference.

AWSDA is also in the process of developing a communications network to spread information about organizations that assist women in handling assault, such as rape crisis centers, victim assistance programs, and neighborhood watch programs.

Is AWSDA a martial arts organization?

AWSDA is open to all women and men involved in some way with women's self defense and rape prevention. Many members are martial artists, but that is not a requirement.