IMPACT Chicago
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 Gender Inclusivity at IMPACT Chicago

IMPACT celebrates diverse gender identities and expressions, and affirms the rights of people of all genders to feel safe and respected. Our instructor team includes people who identify as women, men, and non-binary. While we are continually working to improve the inclusiveness of our programming, there are also limitations of some of our current courses and aspects that may not feel like a good fit for everyone. Please read below for specifics on our various types of programs.

Workshops
IMPACT can provide all-gender workshops on personal self-defense tools and bystander support (1.5 and 2 hour); please reach out to [email protected] to discuss scheduling a workshop that fits your group's needs.

IMPACT:Ability
This is an all-gender program.

Core and Advanced Programs
These programs are open to all women (cis women and trans women). These programs are not open to men.

For people who identify as non-binary (and/or genderqueer, agender, or other identities), if you're interested in our Core or Advanced Programs, we'd love to talk with you about the ways these classes might be helpful to you, as well as the ways they might not be what you’re looking for. Our goal is to inform you of the efforts we've made to reduce cisnormativity, as well as dynamics of the course that remain gendered. Please get in touch at [email protected] with any questions, and we also encourage you to come to a What Is IMPACT Program to get a sense of the class first-hand.

IMPACT for Teens Program
This course is open to girls, nonbinary, & LGBTQ youth, and is not open to boys. We're happy to provide details on gendered dynamics of the course so you can make an informed decision. 

Contact Us

312.971.7119

Our Mission

IMPACT Chicago teaches self-defense to  women, girls, and ​people with disabilities, so they can prevent, minimize, and  stop violence.

Mailing Address

4057 North Damen Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60618
  • Home
  • Programs
    • Core Program
    • IMPACT for Young Teens (12-15)
    • What is IMPACT Program
    • Advanced Programs
    • IMPACT:Ability
    • Workshops >
      • Online Workshops
    • Schedule 2026
  • Register
    • Core Program
    • IMPACT for Young Teens (12-15)
    • What is IMPACT
    • Advanced Programs
    • Payment Options
  • Blog
  • Support
    • Donate Now
    • Volunteer
    • Refer a Friend
    • Connect with IMPACT
  • About Us
    • Our Mission and Approach
    • Gender Inclusivity
    • Anti-Racism >
      • IMPACT & Racism
      • What We've Done
      • Where We're Headed
    • Statement on COVID-19
    • Instructors >
      • Become an Instructor
    • Board and Admin Staff
    • Frequently Asked Questions