Martial arts plays a significant role in my personal practice, which has led me to delve deeply into research related to martial arts, self-defense, and combat sports. While exploring these subjects, I’ve noticed a conspicuous and concerning issue that isn’t widely discussed: the presence of racism and sexism within these fields. This matter has become a prominent part of my thought process, especially due to its potential impact on the underrepresentation of people of color (POCs), LGBTQIA+ individuals, and women in martial arts.

What strikes me is the apparent lack of comprehensive documentation regarding the historical roots of these issues in martial arts, self-defense, and combat sports. The scarcity of research and discourse on this topic has left a significant gap in our understanding of the challenges marginalized groups face in these domains.

I’ve often wished I had a more academic inclination, as it seems that there’s a pressing need for in-depth research and scholarship in this area. A dissertation or comprehensive study could shed much-needed light on the systemic biases, discrimination, and obstacles that have contributed to the underrepresentation and marginalization of certain groups within martial arts and combat sports.

Addressing these issues is crucial for making these fields more inclusive and accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds. It’s not only about rectifying historical injustices but also about creating an environment where anyone, regardless of their ability, race, gender, or sexual orientation, feels welcomed and encouraged to participate in martial arts, self-defense, and combat sports, and also has the access to do so.

It’s disheartening to observe that the issues of racism and sexism in martial arts, self-defense, and combat sports often go unnoticed and unaddressed. As I look around, I can’t help but notice that many of the spaces, such as gyms and dojos, unless they are historically set out specifically for people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and/or women, would rather predominantly cater to white male practitioners (even while studying an art that comes from POC culture). This imbalance is both staggering and rarely questioned and interrupts my study continuously.