New policy statement for Swet Studio

   I received an interesting email recently from someone inquiring about why Swet Studio indicates that we offer classes for “men and women,” and do not indicate anything about trans or non-binary people, i.e., individuals who do not necessarily always identify with being just a man or woman.  While we have always considered ourselves to be open to everyone, I realized that nothing on our website affirmatively indicated such a fact. We have, accordingly, added the following new policy statement so that there is no ambiguity:  

Swet Studio does not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, color, creed, gender, sexual orientation, or identity. With all-gender changing rooms and bathrooms, Swet Studio offers gender-neutral classes and welcomes men, women, trans, and non-binary individuals to attend. We are proud to be different and support a fundamental belief in human rights. While we recognize that everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and philosophies, Swet Studio will not countenance discriminatory actions or outward displays of hostility or discrimination based upon race, ethnicity, religion, color, creed, gender, or sexual orientation or identity. Stated, Swet Studio does not allow such forms of discrimination by its staff, instructors, members, or guests. Swet Studio reserves the right immediately to suspend any participation at the premises for such actions. We are all in this together. 

Although the issue of gender and bathrooms has received a great deal of press recently with everything going on in North Carolina, some of you may or may not know some of the

unique difficulties faced by trans and non-binary individuals when going to a public gym to workout. 

In February, we, here at Swet Studio, were fortunate to host an event sponsored by Qwear Fashion, which features a discussion spearheaded by Cei Lambert, the Patient Advocate for Fenway Health’s Trans Health Program. The talk provided valuable insight into fitness issues faced by trans and non-binary people, including expectations and strategies. Fenway is an organization of Boston that ensures access to high-quality, informed care unique to persons with diverse gender expressions and identities. 

Oh, and while on the subject, on

June 25th, Fenway Health will be hosting a Trans Wellness Picnic on the Charles River Esplanade. 

The event will include light food and snacks, some lawn games, and information on self-care and wellness. Swet Studio will participate, and I look forward to leading a 30-minute workout class. It will be a fun and informative get-together.