by Gray Trammel
Fighters took to the ring at Red Panda Muay Thai’s annual “Spooktacular Halloween Costume Party” on Oct. 24, to raise funds for the Kawaguchi O’Connor Initiative (KOI), a Washington-based organization that provides material support to Trans people fleeing states with hostile legislation.
The event, “Mutual Aid vs. The World,” featured boxing, Muay Thai, grappling, HEMA fencing, a costume contest, karaoke, candy, and snacks, with a suggested $20 donation.
Seattle’s Trans and Queer community members founded Red Panda in the summer of 2024, and has since grown from a 600-square-foot space in Ballard to a nearly 4,000-square-foot gym in Capitol Hill. It was created in response to what it described as a need for “safe and affordable access to combat sports and self defense.” The gym has several different programs and operates on a sliding-scale “pay what you can afford” membership model.
The gym also aims to provide a space beyond martial arts training. Red Panda described its goal as creating “an ethically ran gym, that centers queer and trans folks and the special needs of our community.” Those who utilize the space can socialize, share meals, and work on creative, school, and work projects.
The gym is located at 1415 10th Ave. Those interested in becoming involved can contact redpandamuaythai@proton.me or through Instagram at @redpandaboxing.
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