### English 2nd version: How Black Students Can Defend Themselves Using Njia Uhuru Kipura Techniques Against Racist Attacks at School ( 3-4 minute read 1,247 words.words)

Racist attacks in schools are a harsh reality that many Black students face. While we work towards creating a more inclusive and anti-racist society, it's crucial for these students to learn effective self-defense techniques to protect themselves when situations escalate. One such system is Njia Uhuru Kipura, developed by Mwalimu Mtaalam Ras Fletcher, which combines traditional African wrestling and modern self-defense moves.

A key technique in this system is "mieleka kuvuta kifundo cha mguu," which translates to "wrestling pulling the ankle." It involves a combination of strikes and grappling moves designed to disable an attacker without causing excessive harm. Let's break it down:

1. Forearm Smash: Use your forearm to strike the attacker's thigh, bladder, or knee. This disrupts their balance and creates an opening for the next move.

2. Headbutt: Follow up with a headbutt to the same or a different target area. Aim for the knee, thigh, or midsection to further incapacitate the attacker.

3. Ankle Pick: Finally, use an ankle pick to take the attacker down. Grab their ankle and pull it out from under them, causing them to fall and giving you control of the situation.

These techniques are effective in neutralizing an attacker without causing excessive harm, reducing the risk of legal repercussions. But let's be real, self-defense alone won't solve the broader issue of racism in schools.

We need a multi-pronged approach that includes raising awareness, providing support systems, encouraging community engagement, implementing anti-racism policies, and empowering students through self-defense training.

Educating students, teachers, and parents about racism, discrimination, and their impacts is crucial. Initiatives should focus on fostering an inclusive and respectful school environment through workshops, seminars, and educational campaigns.

Victims of racism and violence need access to psychological support and counseling. Schools should have clear protocols for reporting and addressing incidents, creating an environment where students feel safe to speak up.

Community involvement is key. Workshops, discussions, and collaborative projects aimed at reducing racial tensions can make a difference. Engaging with local organizations and activists can provide additional support and resources.

Schools must implement and enforce anti-racism policies with clear consequences for racist behavior and support for victims. Regular training for staff and students on these policies is essential.

And yes, teaching students self-defense techniques like those from Njia Uhuru Kipura can empower them to protect themselves in dangerous situations. But it's important to emphasize that these techniques are strictly for self-defense, not retaliation or aggression.

Let's take a closer look at how Black students can apply these techniques in real-life scenarios without escalating the situation:

1. Forearm Smash: When faced with an aggressor, use your forearm to deliver a controlled but firm smash to a vulnerable area like the thigh or bladder. This move is intended to create a brief window of disorientation for the attacker.

2. Headbutt: Following the forearm smash, execute a headbutt. Target the midsection or lower body to avoid severe injury but still incapacitate the attacker.

3. Ankle Pick: With the attacker destabilized, perform an ankle pick. By pulling the ankle, the aggressor will lose balance and fall, allowing you to gain control without excessive force.

Building a supportive and inclusive community is also crucial. Establishing peer support groups, mentorship programs, and engaging parents and teachers in discussions about racism can create a more unified and supportive environment.

The incident at Walderslade Girls' School is a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective self-defense techniques and comprehensive anti-racism strategies in schools. By learning and applying Njia Uhuru Kipura techniques, Black students can defend themselves effectively while minimizing legal risks. But these techniques must be part of a broader effort to combat racism and create a safe, inclusive environment for all students.

It's time to get candid about the realities Black students face and take action. Self-defense is a necessary tool, but it's not the only solution. We need to tackle racism head-on, through education, support systems, community engagement, and policy implementation. Only then can we create a truly safe and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their race or background.