IMPACT Chicago
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IMPACT & Racism

This section provides a deeper explanation of how IMPACT Chicago views the connection between gender-based violence and race-based violence.

We believe that racism is insidious and pervasive in all facets of society. We commit to interrogating how racism shows up in our work and adapting our practices to align with our anti-racist goal. 

We believe the systems and culture that sustain gender-based violence are intimately linked to the systems and culture that sustain race-based violence. Sexism, patriarchy, racism, and white supremacy (among other oppressive beliefs/systems) facilitate the marginalization of people based on identity (by race, gender, or both). This in turn enables violence against those whose identities have been marginalized and devalued. 

We know that race and ethnicity influence many factors related to self-defense, including:
  • who is at risk of experiencing violence & the types of violence they may experience (e.g., not all are equally at risk of state-based violence)
  • how individuals are treated when they defend themselves (e.g., BIPOC are more likely to be seen as instigators of violence when acting in self-defense) 
  • each individual’s experience, interpretation, and application of self-defense skills through the intersection of their multiple identities

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

Designed by  Nate Tracy-Amoroso
  • Home
  • Statement on COVID-19
  • Programs
    • Core Program
    • IMPACT for Girls
    • What is IMPACT Program
    • Advanced Programs
    • IMPACT:Ability
    • Workshops >
      • Online Workshops
    • Schedule 2022
  • Register
    • Core Program
    • IMPACT for Girls
    • What is IMPACT
    • Advanced Programs
    • Workshops
    • Payment Options
  • Blog
  • Support
    • Donate Now
    • Volunteer
    • Refer a Friend
    • Receive IMPACT Updates
    • Become an Instructor
  • About Us
    • Our Mission and Approach
    • Gender Inclusivity
    • Anti-Racism >
      • IMPACT & Racism
      • What We've Done
      • Where We're Headed
    • Instructors
    • Board and Admin Staff
    • Frequently Asked Questions