write a news story previewing this event in Pasadena, and explaining how it would benefit women in the city. Include some of the direct quotes in the interview as relevant and make sure to include instructions on how to join the class: Vice Mayor Felicia Williams and Peace Over Violence will together host an interactive class on easy-to-use techniques such as awareness, assertiveness, safety strategies, and physical techniques. 
Empowering Women: Comprehensive Self-Defense Workshop
Date: Saturday, October 14th
Location: Victory Park Community Center


Participants will also discover local resources for domestic violence support in Pasadena. The event aims to promote empowerment, safety, and community unity. It's open to individuals of all fitness levels, and attendees are advised to wear comfortable attire.

Learn about resources in the City of Pasadena to address domestic violence in our community. RSVP to <PRESIDIO_ANONYMIZED_EMAIL_ADDRESS>
Established in 1971 by pioneering feminist activists, Peace Over Violence is a sexual and domestic violence, intimate partner stalking, child abuse and youth violence prevention center headquartered in Los Angeles. POV is committed to social service, social change and social justice. POV’s innovative and comprehensive programs include Emergency, Intervention, Prevention, Education and Advocacy services and are offered in Los Angeles and the 22 cities within the West San Gabriel Valley.
More details about the event: 

Why Attend?
Equip yourself with essential skills, gain confidence, and be a part of an initiative striving to create a safer environment for all women in our community. This workshop is more than just a class; it's a movement towards empowerment and change.
Note: This workshop is designed for people of all fitness levels. Wear comfortable clothing and come prepared to engage both mentally and physically.
RSVP to <PRESIDIO_ANONYMIZED_EMAIL_ADDRESS>. 

Written response from Vice Mayor Felicia Williams

Can you share the inspiration behind organizing the Women's Empowerment Self-Defense Class, and what outcomes do you hope to achieve with this event? 
The self-empowerment class is the follow up to our self defense class we held in March. We received feedback that the women wanted another class and a class that was accessible to all abilities and ages. A friend then connected me to Peace Over Violence who taught me about the resources available in the City to victims of domestic violence and their collaboration with Pasadena PD. I also learned that domestic violence is a contributor to homelessness among women, and overall trauma in families. The goal is to increase awareness of domestic violence, the resources available, and empower women to recognize, report, and stand up to domestic violence. These are very difficult topics to discuss, but creating a safe space for women to help themselves and others is also a key to prevention, and that is the goal of the program.
·       How can awareness, assertiveness, and safety strategies empower women in our community to address personal safety concerns effectively? 
Awareness, assertiveness, and safety strategies are the basic tools to help women protect themselves, but they are just a start. Domestic violence is a broader issue and so expanding awareness will also help with prevention.
·       What role do you see this class playing in raising awareness about domestic violence in Pasadena, and what resources will be highlighted for those in need? 
The class will also cover ways to help identify domestic violence and abusive relationships. The class is open to women over 12 years of age, so I am hoping for more participation from younger women as we talk about dating violence.
·       In what ways can the community actively support and engage with initiatives like this to foster a safer environment for all residents? 
I hope this is the first in a series of more frequent events, especially for Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October each year. I am always focused on building partnerships and connections in the community so the sky’s the limit for what participants can do afterwards with their new friendships.
·       Can you provide insights into the collaborative effort between the City of Pasadena and Peace Over Violence in addressing domestic violence and fostering a culture of safety? 
Peace Over Violence has an office in Pasadena and works with our Pasadena PD with counseling, housing, legal, and other services to help victims and their families. Shepherd’s Door also provides healing, support, counseling and financial literacy services and referrals in Pasadena. We are blessed to have these amazing resources here, so I hope to get the word out. Huntington Health will also be there to provide health and medical information to support women and families.
·       How do you envision the impact of events like the Women's Empowerment Self-Defense Class on the broader goal of building a safer, more empowered community? 
This is good old fashioned community building so we can be there for each other and be stronger together.