Seminar teaches self-defense

"No!"

The word echoed from the HUB Gallery Lounge last night as a self-defense workshop co-sponsored by The Center for Women Students and Delta Sigma Theta sorority, 108 Hibbs, taught women students the first rule in fending off an assailant -- tell the person "no."

"They give women an opportunity to learn assertiveness techniques and allow them to apply them in high-risk situations," LaSalle said.

The course was conducted by Kelly Kemper, a woman with a black belt in karate and 10 years of teaching experience. Kemper instructed the group on how to identify a dangerous situation and what to do when placed in one.

"Your best self-defense is to not put yourself in a dangerous situation in the first place," she said.

Kemper's interactive course involved female students by having them answer questions and volunteer for demonstrations of self-defense techniques. Women were asked to pair up to practice the defense moves on a partner.

Jocelyn Woods (junior-kinesiology) said she came to the class to learn ways to protect herself in case she has to face a dangerous situation on campus or at her home in New York.

"I think it's necessary because this campus is so large and there are so many people here," Woods said. "Learning some of these techniques make me feel more comfortable."

Sexual assault and rape is a large problem in the United States due to stereotypes about women and living in a male-dominated society, said Erica Dean, a University alumnae and Delta Sigma Theta sorority member. Dean said she believes the only way to prevent rape and sexual assault is to have men and women communicate and work with each other.

"Rape is not just a woman's problem," Dean said.

Angelique Deas, co-service chair for Delta Sigma Theta sorority, said she thought the program was necessary because many women don't take the time to learn self-defense.

"Women are scared to defend themselves," said Deas (junior-advertising) "and we want to let them know it is okay to protect themselves."