Self Defense Workshops
South Florida
On December 7, 2025, FAAJA’s South Florida Chapter hosted a Community Self-Defense Workshop at the Chinese Baptist Church of Miami, engaging more than 110 participants from diverse cultural and generational backgrounds. The workshop focused on improving community safety through practical self-defense training, situational awareness, and culturally rooted wellness practices. Program highlights included Taekwondo demonstrations, Tai Ji performances, safety education for families, and interactive participation. Community leaders and local officials emphasized collective responsibility, cultural pride, and cross-community collaboration. The event strengthened public safety awareness, promoted confidence and resilience, and reinforced FAAJA’s commitment to inclusive, community-based safety initiatives across South Florida.
Central Florida
On January 31, 2026, FAAJA’s Central Florida Chapter, along with Tomorrow Chinese School and the Florida Youth Association, hosted a Self-Defense Workshop in Orlando, with around 80–90 participants. The event covered findings from FAAJA’s recent safety survey: 54% of youth experienced verbal harassment, 60% witnessed anti-Asian bias, and 91% are interested in self-defense skills. Led by former Deputy Sheriff Tom Lin and martial arts coach Wayne Lenihan, participants learned practical defense strategies, situational awareness, and boundary setting. FAAJA President Teresa Jin emphasized the importance of safety awareness and mental preparedness. Despite cold weather, engagement was high. The workshop reinforced FAAJA’s statewide mission to enhance community safety and empowerment.
North Florida
On January 3, 2026, FAAJA’s North Florida Chapter hosted a Safety & Awareness Skills Workshop in Tallahassee, drawing more than 70 community members despite inclement weather. The event focused on enhancing safety awareness, civic engagement, conflict de-escalation, and personal defense skills for Asian Americans. Speakers included legal professionals, a congressional candidate, a military veteran, and martial arts instructors, who addressed political participation, confidence-building, violence prevention, firearm safety education, and practical self-defense techniques. The workshop also benefited from strong volunteer support and participation from local Asian community leaders, reflecting broad community engagement and a shared commitment to safety, empowerment, and resilience.
