Dear friends,

As we close out 2025, I’m holding on to hope — and fire — for the year ahead.

People often ask how I’m doing (I appreciate it!).

Living in occupied DC is hard on the nervous system. I’m often on edge because I know what’s happening around me. Just one example: 84 people have been abducted within a mile or so of where I live — and the real number is probably higher, that’s just what activists have been able to document.

And there’s the cognitive dissonance. I have privilege that keeps me safer. When I look out my office window, everything looks the same as it did before November 5, 2024. The maple tree that’s kept me company for years is still there, still beautiful.

I’m angry and heartbroken about what’s happened this year — especially the growing attacks on immigrants, trans people, and others already targeted and pushed to the margins.

And I’m grateful that Defend Yourself has the people, skills, and experience to support those being targeted, as well as those who want to help.

The skills we teach — protecting yourself, protecting others — aren’t abstract ideas. Empowerment self-defense, bystander intervention, and community care are tools people use every day to prevent harm, look out for each other, and to stay connected, even when the level of danger and harm we’re used to (used to!?!) has increased drastically.

I’ve long known that action is the antidote to fear and despair, and I’m grateful to know what the Defend Yourself team and I can do that truly makes a difference.

I also know that prevention and healing happen through connection and community. I’m grateful that Defend Yourself continues to build those connections—through our classes, our community collaborations, and our monthly Book Circle.

I’m especially grateful for our partners who join us in collective action. None of us can change the world alone.

And I am profoundly grateful for our team — and for all of you.

I vow to continue. To resist with love. To build safety, dignity, and courage wherever we can.

With gratitude and determination,​
​Lauren

P.S. If you’d like to work with us in 2026, I’m happy to hop on a call and craft trainings that support your group or community. I always love to hear what’s going on and how we can support you.

P.P.S. If you’re able, please donate to support our work.

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