NEW YORK—Free self defense training classes will be available in Central Park on Oct. 7 in response to the recent sexual assault of a 73-year-old woman in the park in broad daylight.
The City Council is also working to arrange free training sessions at the Goddard Senior Center on the Upper West Side, Leonard Covelo Senior Center in East Harlem, and the Lennox Hill Senior Center.
“I think it’s a good idea; anything to let seniors know how to take care of themselves is a good idea,” said Doris Colon, a program director at the Goddard Senior Center. “We’re right next to Central Park, and we have people that walk.”
“These types of heinous, despicable acts will not be tolerated in this City,” said Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito in a statement about the recent assault. “Our parks need to remain a safe place for all New Yorkers, especially women and seniors. Unfortunately, we as women always need to be prepared, and that is why we plan to hold additional self-defense classes for our communities.”
The classes will take place on Sunday, Oct. 7 at 2 p.m. at the North Meadow Recreation Center in Central Park Mid-Park at 97th Street. Instructors from The Center for Anti-Violence Education will teach the session.
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