A free self-defense workshop teaching teenagers how to defend themselves amid a rise in campus bullying and violent crime was held in Boyle Heights on Saturday. The workshop was hosted by Los Angeles Assembly Member Miguel Santiago and taught students from 12 to 17 years old how to set boundaries, take preventative measures, and master easy-to-learn self-defense techniques. The class featured instructors from Peace Over Violence in partnership with Proyecto Pastoral. “With reports of crime in communities and areas such as the Los Angeles Metro and bullying in schools, it is imperative that community members (especially those who are vulnerable) have the ability to defend themselves,” read a statement from Assembly Member Santiago’s office. “This class will not only help protect our community members but also help build self-confidence for those who are at risk.” KTLA's Phil Ige reports on August 17, 2024.