by Mara Magdich
Daily Lobo
UNM student groups sponsored a free three-hour class at Johnson Center Wednesday where an Albuquerque police officer and a self-defense instructor taught about 20 women how to defend themselves in case they are attacked.
The class, whose sponsors include Students Educating Peers About Sex, the Associated Students of UNM and the Agora Crisis Center, was part of an effort started late last semester to further campus safety.
Albuquerque Police officer Trish Ahrensfield and self-defense instructor Anita Gallegos led the class, where the first two hours included discussion on several topics such as what women should do when they are victimized, rape prevention and what to do in the event of a robbery, burglary, or car jacking. The rest of the meeting transitioned into a self-defense class, in which volunteers aggressively practiced techniques for fighting a potential male attacker.
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
"Your wallet can be stolen or your house or car can be robbed, but can you be replaced?" Ahrensfield said.
She stressed that in order for women to protect themselves, they must be in an aggressive mindset of survival and continuously aware of their surroundings.
In addition to self-defense, Ahrensfield discussed the importance of making copies of drivers' licenses, social security cards and registration, in the event that your car is robbed or your purse is stolen.
"It's really important not to wait until things happen to you before you make changes," she said.
Those attending the class included UNM female students and staff members.
Many who were present were positive about the class.
"I learned things in this meeting that I would not normally think of doing in self defense," said Shelly Rothrock, a senior psychology major.
"Now I know how important it is for women to know self defense techniques," said Joanne Lovato, a UNM employee. "The world is crazy, you never know what's out there."
The next "Women Against Crime" class will be held Nov. 14. Call 277-6138 to register. Ahrensfield will also be instructing a seven-week class beginning Jan. 13 on aggressive self-defensive techniques. For more information, call 761-8800.
