Inclusivity and valuing human diversity is a growing movement. There are many examples of people who are working hard to ensure that anyone–of any religious practice, personal value, gender identity, sexual preference, or political view–is truly included in jiu-jitsu and beyond. However, there are still times that people are […]
As a clinical psychologist, I support the work people do to improve self-esteem, to better themselves, and to take responsibility for their mental health and life circumstances. However, there is a general flavor to the self-help industry—especially those that include martial arts and sports—that ignores the impact of systemic racism […]
Triangles Everywhere Triangles Everywhere provides a trusted space for LGBTQI Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioners to connect and be themselves. Kimberly Serratos, an admin and founding members of Triangles Everywhere , sat down to chat about the group and her experience with them thus far. In the […]
We all want our training partners to feel comfortable and safe entering our gyms: I am writing this essay under that assumption. I have been a BJJ practitioner of 7 years. I also manage my gym so I am often considering the culture of our gym and crew, how […]
With the rollercoaster that is 2020, it is easy to forget that June is LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) Pride month. During this time, we reflect on LGBTQ history and celebrate the progress we have made. Pride takes place in June and honors the Stonewall Uprising of 1969. […]
Although we like to say that Jiu Jitsu is for everyone, is it really? Are we all really considered equals? And is Jiu Jitsu truly a place free of judgement or prejudice? Perhaps there isn’t one blanket answer for the entire Jiu Jitsu community. However, by just looking at the […]