Firearm Safety Training for Queer Black Folks

NOTE: AN RSVP ON MEETUP DOES NOT SERVE AS A BOOKED SPOT. YOU MUST BOOK VIA LINK BELOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT.

Lesbifriends Travel is proud to partner with certified firearm instructor Paquita Wiggins to offer a comprehensive, safety-focused gun training tailored for queer Black folks.

Whether you’re seeking to obtain your Handgun Qualification License (HQL) or a Concealed Carry Permit, this training will provide you with the education, hands-on experience, and confidence needed to protect yourself and your community responsibly.

This course goes beyond firearm handling—it’s about empowerment, education, and reclaiming our safety in a world that too often overlooks us.

In a welcoming, affirming space, participants will learn firearm safety, self-defense principles, and legal considerations, all while gaining real experience at the shooting range.

Event Details You Should Know
📅 Class Date: Saturday, August 2 (Classroom Training)
📅 Shooting Range Date: Saturday, August 9
🕖Time: 9 AM - 11 AM (for HQL) & 9 AM - 5 PM (for CCP) Local Time Zone is Eastern Time (ET)
Class Location: Southeast, Washington, DC
Shooting Range: Baltimore, MD
(Exact addresses shared with confirmed participants and will be shared week of event. While firearm safety and protection training is typically a 16-hour process, our comprehensive approach ensures that participants receive the necessary instruction efficiently.)

Who This Event Is For:
Queer Black Folks looking to learn about gun safety in an exclusively curated, community-centered environment.

Course Options & Pricing:

Option 1: Handgun Qualification License - $75
✅ 2 hours of classroom education
✅ Hours of firearm handling (at the range)
✅ All firearms & ammunition provided
✅ Instruction from a certified USCCA instructor
*IMPORTANT NOTE: This option includes the required training course and certificate, which you will need to obtain your Handgun Qualification License (HQL) in Maryland. However, fingerprinting and the application submission are not included in the ticket price and must be completed separately.
Since the state of Maryland is responsible for issuing the HQL, you will not leave the class fully licensed. Instead, you will receive the training certificate, which is a required step in the licensing process.

Option 2: Concealed Carry Permit - $325
✅ 8 hours of classroom education
✅ Hours of firearm handling (at the range)
✅ Meal included (vegan-friendly options available)
*IMPORTANT NOTE: While firearm safety and protection training is typically a 16-hour process, our comprehensive approach ensures that participants receive the necessary instruction efficiently.

What To Expect:
📖 Day 1: Classroom Training (August 2)

• Firearm safety, responsible ownership, and state gun laws
• Self-defense principles & legal considerations
• Hands-on firearm handling in a controlled setting

🎯 Day 2: Shooting Range Practice (August 9)

• Live-fire training & confidence-building exercises
• Tactical drills & supervised shooting practice

💪🏾 Why Train With Us?
✔ Led by a Certified Instructor: Paquita Wiggins is a licensed USCCA instructor with 15+ years of experience.
✔ A Safe & Supportive Environment: Learn without intimidation in a space designed for queer Black folks.
✔ Empowerment Through Education: This isn’t just about firearms—it’s about preparedness, protection, and community strength.

🛑 Cancellation & Refund Policy

• Cancel within 7 days = 50% refund.
• If the class is canceled, refunds will be issued minus non-refundable expenses.
• If Instructor cancels, refunds will be handled by the Organizer.

Spaces are limited—secure your spot today and take the first step toward firearm education and empowerment! [Sign Up Here]