Queer Self-Defense Resources
Pacific Northwest Guide
Vetted queer-affirming organizations · Non-lethal tools · Weapon retention · Free zines & videos
Why This Matters
Not everyone who comes to FST will choose to own a firearm - and that's completely valid. But everyone deserves a baseline level of self-defense capability. Self-defense exists on a spectrum, from situational awareness and de-escalation through non-lethal tools to trained physical responses and, for those who choose it, firearms.
The queer community faces real, documented elevated risk of targeted violence. In 2023, there were 2,402 hate crime incidents related to sexual orientation and 547 related to gender identity. That context makes self-defense not abstract - it's practical community infrastructure.
The Self-Defense Spectrum
Situational awareness, de-escalation, boundary communication. Lowest barrier, highest return. RCSD and Traction Project both teach this layer.
Personal alarm, pepper spray, TASER. Legal in Oregon, no permit. Significant deterrence and incapacitation capability.
BJJ, Krav Maga, empowerment self-defense classes. Body-based skills that work even when you don't have tools on you. Builds lasting confidence.
Understanding and handling firearms safely. FST's core offering. Even non-owners benefit from knowing how firearms work.
Carrying for self-defense, including holster selection, retention training, and legal/ethical framework.
FST's Position
Firearm Safety Team exists to serve the LGBTQIA+ community's safety needs - whatever form that takes. We refer community members to queer-affirming non-firearm trainers without hesitation. The trainers and organizations in this guide share our values: safety, inclusion, and the right of every queer person to feel capable of protecting themselves and their community.
~ Anth (They/Them), Firearm Safety Team LLC
Ready to Add Firearms to Your Safety Toolkit?
FST offers zero-pressure firearm familiarization specifically for the LGBTQIA+ community in Portland. No experience or equipment required.