Sojourner #035: Empowering Women Through Self-Defense

"The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it." (Proverbs 22:3)

On April 19, 2025, the Gadsden State Police Department is hosting a free Advanced Women's Self-Defense course in cooperation with surrounding law enforcement agencies and community leaders as a part of their ongoing effort to empower women to stand firm through difficulties and trial, giving them the skills they need to defend themselves from the evil that exists in this world. 

Those who attend the free course will learn advanced, hands-on self-defense techniques and detailed insights on situational awareness drawing from real-world experiences. Participants will also have the option to attend a firearms safety training session with live fire instruction from law enforcement certified firearms instructors at the Gadsden Police Department's training facility. The course is offered to women aged 13 and up.

An anonymous intelligence officer known across the greater U.S. special operations and tactical law enforcement community expressed his sincere belief that courses like the one offered by the Gadsden State Police Department "give women the tools they need to defend themselves in a world that never fights fair." 

Sojourner Magazine reached out to Jay Freeman, the Chief of Police and Public Safety at the Gadsden State Police Department, for an exclusive interview on the upcoming course and his beliefs on why women should participate in the free training.

Q. Chief, thank you for agreeing to talk with us about the importance of empowering women through self-defense in a way that encourages women to take responsibility for their own safety. Let's get right to the point. Why do you believe it is vital for women to receive self-defense training from qualified individuals with real-world experience? From a biblical perspective, how does empowering women in this way reflect God's command to protect the vulnerable?

A. Good question. It is so crucial for women to receive self-defense training because unfortunately, they are statistically more likely to be targeted for certain types of crimes. Teaching self-defense is not just about fighting - it is about awareness, confidence, and preparation. Our goal is to give women the tools they need to avoid danger whenever possible and to protect themselves if the situation demands it.

Q. Self-defense is not only a practical skill, but it also aligns with God's call for justice. Why is empowering women to protect themselves an act of loving care for the vulnerable?

A. Empowering women through education and training is one of the most meaningful ways we can stand behind them and say, "You are not alone, and your safety matters." This is something that I am very passionate about, which is why it is one of the first training courses we offered after I took the helm as Chief of Police at Gadsden State. 

Q. In the Scriptures, we see very clearly that women are made in the image of God with inherent dignity (Gen. 1:27). How does this training course honor this reality and ensure that they can live with confidence in their daily lives? Why do you believe it is important to communicate to women that their safety and well-being are worth investing in?

A. Women deserve to live without fear, period. They deserve to move through their lives with confidence and a sense of control over their own safety. This training is a way to reinforce that their well-being is worth the time, effort, and investment. We're telling them that they're valued - and we're backing them up by helping them build skills that could one day make all the difference in a dangerous moment.

Q. Scripture is clear about the need to protect the weak and uphold justice (Isa. 1:17). How would you say that this training serves as a practical expression of biblical justice, especially in a world where women are vulnerable to harm?

A. Every person has the right to feel safe in their environment. Unfortunately, too often women are put in situations where their safety is threatened. This training is a practical response to that reality. It helps level the playing field by giving women the ability to recognize that danger early, avoid it when possible, and respond effectively if needed. It's about prevention first - awareness, de-escalation, and avoidance - but also about being ready to defend themselves confidently if absolutely necessary.

Q. What would you say to women who might feel hesitant to sign up for the course or doubt in their ability to defend themselves? How does this course equip women to step up and take personal responsibility for their own safety, while also trusting in God's protection (Ps. 27:1)?

A. I'm glad you asked this question. Hear me - we understand. To any woman who might be unsure or intimidated, I want to say that this training is for you. You don't have to be strong, athletic, or experienced - just willing to learn. What we teach is specifically designed for real-world situations and everyday people. Our goal isn't to make you a fighter, it is to give you the confidence to handle yourself, make smart decisions, and avoid danger when possible. You will leave this course not just with skills, but with a stronger belief in yourself.

Q. Why should women in our community act now and sign up for this course? In light of Proverbs 22:3, which warns us that "the prudent sees danger and hides himself...", why is it important for women to be, and I want to emphasize this, proactive in their preparation and not delay?

A. We don't ever want to wait until something bad happens to take action. Women in our communities should take the opportunity now to learn these skills. This course is a proactive step that could prevent a future tragedy or dangerous encounter. To the women reading this, I want to say: when you take the time to learn how to stay safe, you're making an investment in your future and your peace of mind. It's about being prepared, confident, and in control of your safety.

Emily Feemster, who has been an essential part of the Gadsden State Police Department since its creation, serving as the Police / Public Safety Clerk, shared a heartfelt message for women across the state, saying, "A few hours of learning self-defense could give you a lifetime of confidence - don't wait until you wish you had."

If you would like to register for the upcoming course on April 19, 2025, please email efeemster@gadsdenstate.edu, or call 256-549-8276 for more information about what to expect from the training.

About Jay Freeman: 

Jay Freeman faithfully serves as the Chief of Police & Public Safety at Gadsden State Community College and as an Etowah County Board of Education Board member (Place #3). He is happily married to his wife, Laura Freeman - they have three children. 

A few months ago, we interviewed Jay about his faith in Christ and the Golden Rule / Anti-Bullying program that he teaches to elementary-aged children throughout the Gadsden City School System, you can read that article here.

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