The York School of Defence exists very much as a safe space. There is far too much “alpha-male” fuelled toxic masculinity and macho bravado in the world of martial arts and this actively excludes people from participating.
We believe that we live in an unequal society and actively seek to recruit women, members of the LGBTQIA+ communities, people of varying ethnicities and backgrounds, neurodiverse folk, people with long term health conditions, and oppressed minorities who exist in a society that perpetuates the myth that martial arts are not for them.
If you are going to be a member of the York School of Defence it is of vital importance that you work with us to help create a self and welcoming space. Pronouns should be respected and if in doubt, please ask people what their prefences are. Deadnames should be ignored. Xenophobic, racist, sexist, transphobic, homophobic, ableist and similar bigoted views are entirely unacceptable and will result in expulsion from the club.
