The Asian Defense Alliance (ADA) was founded by high school students and lifelong martial arts training partners, Mateo Liguori and Ashley Wong, in response to the increase in anti-Asian violence, especially against elders.

"My grandmother did not feel comfortable walking around the city alone," Mateo says. "She would call me and jokingly request that 'her bodyguard' accompany her."

Realizing that not everyone had a grandson with a first-degree black belt in mixed martial arts at their disposal, Mateo took action. With Ashley (a second-degree black belt in MMA), Hailey Sullivan, and Ean Tom, he formed the ADA with the mission of empowering the Asian community and allies against hate crimes and other acts of violence through self-defense training and education.

In this workshop you will learn situational awareness, how to diffuse aggression, and self-defense techniques. Open to all ages and levels.

Bubble tea brought to you by Tea and Milk will be served. Free and open to the public. Registration and release form required. Register here.