Self-Defense for Sex Workers

This free, three-hour self-defense workshop is custom-designed for in-person sex workers. It offers a supportive, judgment-free space to build practical safety skills. You’ll learn foundational grappling techniques rooted in Brazilian jiu jitsu—focusing on holds, escapes, chokes, and leverage—to help you stay safe and in control in close-contact situations.

Whether you’re brand new to self-defense or have some experience, this workshop is for all bodies and skill levels. Come ready to move, connect, and empower yourself!

No experience needed. Light refreshments provided. Please review FAQ section below.

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Meet your instructor:
Our workshop will be taught by Alyce Duckworth, a Brazilian jiu jitsu brown belt with 11 years of experience who has earned her pink belt for Gracie Women Empowered self-defense class facilitation. She's a licensed psychotherapist, social worker, and trauma specialist with multiple years' experience teaching self-defense to marginalized populations.

Meet your assistant:
Our workshop will be assisted by Erika Fore, a sexuality educator and event facilitator with five years of experience in Brazilian jiu jitsu and three in Chinese kickboxing. She'll help guide your experience and be your go-to person for questions before and during the event.

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FAQ:

- Who's allowed to attend this workshop?
Only sex workers are invited to attend this event. All gender expressions welcome.

- What should I wear?
Be prepared for a light workout and physical contact with others. Fitted clothes like yoga pants or shorts and a fitted top will work best. We'll be barefoot on the mats. Because we will be grappling, please arrive with good hygiene and avoid applying strong fragrances beforehand.

- What should I bring?
A water bottle, shoes that are easily slipped off and on (like flip flops), a notebook, and a pencil or pen.

- Why do I have to answer questions before registering?
Prior to reserving your spot, you'll be required to answer a few questions about the work you do and situations in which you feel most vulnerable to violence. Your answers will directly inform the movements we teach at this workshop and help us ensure you get the most individual value possible. And if you have any physical disabilities or mobility limitations, we want to take those into consideration as well.

- Can I bring my child?
We kindly request that you find alternate care for your child while you attend this event. This workshop will require your undivided attention, and we'll be discussing themes and situations not appropriate for children.

- Health protocols
For the sake of our collective health, please do not attend this workshop if you have a contagious respiratory illness like a cold, the flu, or COVID, as you will be in close proximity to others during this event. Masks are welcome but not required.