Anarchism and Martial Arts

# | 14.05.2014 13:37 | Anti-racism | Education | Health

The Left and Anarchists have usually had a strange attitude towards martial arts. Preaching 'revolution' and 'self help' on the one hand, whilst not actually being able to defend themselves, never mind fight in the streets. So we've got self help on one hand that strangely does not apply to people's own capabilities to look after themselves on the street.

We are aware that macho sexist behaviour can be a problem, but people like the prominent activist Becca Kirkpatrick in Birmingham combine gym work with trade union activities (& there are more). They are not incompatible. There can be hierarchies between teachers and students in some martial arts clubs, but we aim to disolve these barriers and work in a supportive cooperative way.

Throughout much of Europe there is a severe fascist/far-right problem, and in response anti-fascists organise training and popular MMA forms. In true anarchist fashion, makeshift gyms, classes and skill shares have pushed the anti-fascist scene in a truly new and professional direction. Self-defence has become a way of learning the street crafts of defending ourselves in dangerous situations. Using the DIY (Do it yourself) anarchist ethos, which is one of skill sharing without prejudice or hierarchy.

Let's see videos:

Italy