Four sexual assaults were reported to SARS and there were 17 reports of relationship violence. Most people think rape happens when a stranger jumps out of the bushes at you and attacks you, but really that is only about 15 percent of the time. However, a self-defense class contributes to confidence which can help with recovery and prevention of violence against women. The classes will be Saturday and Sunday, April 21 and 22, and are free. There are four spots left in the beginning class and nine in the intermediate, Langley said.
Violence does happen.
It's important to feel confident when walking down the street. Zekra Brasher, a self-defense teacher in Portland, Ore., will be returning to campus to teach the classes again. The self-defense classes are the first event for Take Back the Night, a week full of free events raising awareness on violence against women. Take Back the Night, which has been held in Missoula since 1977, features activism workshops, art shows, poetry reading and a presentation of Drawing the Shades. The culmination of the week's event will feature a rally, march and speakout on Friday at 7 p.m.