Official statement: A Commitment to Ethical Practice and Collaboration in Empowerment Self Defense
- International Association of ESD Professionals
- Reading time: 2 min
The International Association of Empowerment Self Defense Professionals (IAESDP) believes deeply in fostering an environment built on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. We recognize and honor the hard work and dedication of local Empowerment Self Defense instructors who have invested significant time and resources in building community relationships.
Recently, it has come to our attention that some instructors may be unintentionally disrupting these established relationships by teaching in cities without first engaging the local ESD professionals. Such actions, even if well-intentioned, can feel competitive or undermining, leading to mistrust and fragmentation within our community.
The IAESDP urges all ESD professionals to embrace a collaborative mindset. Before offering workshops or courses in a city where you are not already established, we strongly encourage reaching out to local instructors to explore partnership opportunities. This practice promotes unity, enhances collective impact, and respects the groundwork laid by fellow instructors.
Joining the IAESDP means committing to uphold these ethical standards and best practices. Let’s work together to strengthen trust, collaboration, and the transformative power of Empowerment Self Defense everywhere.