Projects and Stuff

This past Saturday, Supernova conducted a demo/seminar at the Queer People of Color Conference. I am so proud of them! They have improved so much! I hope they had as great a time performing as the audience did watching them. Due to concerns of injury, we didn’t get the chance to work with the audience as much as we might have liked, but I think we gave attendees some useful information regardless. 

The art I am creating, Tomoe-Ryu, was also tested, and I’m proud of it, as well, as we were able to show how what we learn directly applied to worries our audience had about losing balance, facing weapons, and surprise attacks. Tomoe-Ryu Combat Judo is built to help the LGBT community. I am doing everything I can to include, modify and create techniques to be practical, sensible, and not ableist. 

“MAKING IT BETTER—Supernova Martial Arts is part of Lifeworks, the LA youth gay & lesbian center. Supernova Martial Arts is a free self defense class that teaches Combat Judo These classes are primarily for queers and queer friendly people. Supernova Martial Arts believes that it is essential for queers to know how to protect themselves to prevent gay bashing or any kind of abuse. This class is set up for queers to learn to defend themselves and also enjoy a great workout. Beginners are welcome!”

Sometimes, I am loading my Honda with mics and guitars and the occasional samurai sword and heels, and makeup–and I am just thinking–why on earth do I do this? And more importantly–is there a better way to do this?

Not everyone performs or wants to perform. Or write. Or play music. During those days when I am up at 4 am trying to get to the Raleigh airport, I can really understand not wanting the hassle. But I do it because that is what I do. I am a writer, and I want to perform and publish and develop and improve. The HQOM is for everyone who feels this way, who can’t live without a guitar, or a pen, or a stage. If you have ever stayed home to finish your poem or song while your friends went to the movies or to a bar, this is the place for you.

Here’s to better, more informed, connected and prepared queer artists!

Much love,
Ryka

Gosh, April was fun! It’s good to be back working together. This month, we have a very special guest. The amazing Kay Barrett joins us from the East Coast to work and share with us!

Time
Friday, May 27 · 7:00pm – 10:00pm
Location
Behavioral Health Services, Inc. (BHS)
6838 West Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA

Her work is at www.kaybarrett.net

I am now working with LifeWorks and Triangle Martial Arts. Sensei Parnell Marcano and I are holding classes for LifeWorks youth and staff on Fridays and (starting Jan 2011) Saturdays. We are combining judo and tae kwon do (with a little ninjutsu, care of Sensei Jonathan Retamoza-Davila)

As part of this whole process, I finally had my ranking re-evaluated, and have accepted promotion to fifth-degree black belt. I’m officially “Master Ryka Aoki,” and serve as the International Technical Director for Triangle Judo. I am creating a curriculum where out queer youth can learn judo, even if they feel uncomfortable within traditional judo organizations. It’s neat to finally be acknowledged as a master, but it is a profound responsibility. Judo should be for everyone, and that includes LGBTIQQ family.

Wish me luck!

:)
Ryka