Gadsden, AL – The Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department will host an Advanced Women’s Self-Defense Class on April 18 at the Beck Conference Center. The training event is free and open to women ages 13 and older.
The class will begin at 8 a.m. with a classroom session scheduled from 8 a.m. until noon. Following a lunch break, participants will take part in a firearms range session from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
According to organizers, the event is designed to help women build confidence, strengthen situational awareness and develop practical self-defense and firearm safety skills. Instruction will be led by experienced professionals from the Gadsden State Police & Public Safety Department, along with instructors from partnering local law enforcement agencies. Additional instructors and guest speakers are expected to be announced at a later date.
The program will include hands-on self-defense techniques, legal insights related to self-protection, firearm awareness and safety training, and opportunities for participants to practice skills in a supportive learning environment. Lunch and snacks will be provided.
Participants who plan to attend the firearms portion of the class are asked to bring a functioning handgun and 50 rounds of ammunition.
“This class is more than just self-defense — it’s about giving women the tools to feel confident, capable and safe,” said Chief Jay Freeman. “We’re honored to bring this level of training to our community and sincerely thank the departments and partners who are helping make this event possible.”
Space for the training is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Those interested in participating can register by contacting Emily Feemster at 256-549-8276 or by email at efeemster@gadsdenstate.edu. Additional information about the class can be obtained by contacting Chief Freeman at jfreeman@gadsdenstate.edu.
Organizers say the event provides an opportunity for women in Gadsden and across Alabama to learn practical safety skills while building confidence in a structured training environment.
