Inclusion Policy
The study of Aikido is about learning to use power ethically and responsibly in the service of creating a more unified, compassionate and just world. The art therefore calls on us to examine how we, as individuals and as a collective, exist in, contribute to, and benefit from the unjust hierarchies of power that pervade our communities, nation and world. Aikido of Madison acknowledges that, like the study of Aikido, enacting true inclusivity in the dojo and beyond is a continuous and never-ending endeavor.
Aikido of Madison is committed to being an anti-racist and LGBTQIA affirming organization that supports gender equality and is accessible to all regardless of ability status. As such, Aikido of Madison does not tolerate discrimination of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national/ethic origin, age, ability status, veteran status, indigenous tribal affiliation, or any other protected class outlined by state and federal law. However, we acknowledge that non-discrimination is only the first step to true inclusivity, and are exploring how we can more fully embody the values contained in this statement through changes to our facilities, instruction and dojo culture.
Aikido involves the transmission of knowledge from teacher to student, peer to peer, and body to body, in a process that involves a high degree of trust.
Actions that damage this trust, including behaviors that violate the spirit of the statement above and/or abuses of power on and off the mat, will be met with corrective action in the pursuit of accountability and justice, up to and including immediate expulsion and revoking of dojo membership.
When members/instructors observe or are made aware of actions that are inconsistent with this statement or other dojo policy, dojo leadership will endeavor to respond in a manner that prioritizes the dignity/safety of the harmed individual(s), facilitates repair/reconciliation if appropriate/possible, and is proportionate to the severity of the actions in question.