A Message from the Emperado Family Protecting the Legacy of KSDI and Kajukenbo
As the family of Sijo Adriano D. Emperado, founder of Kajukenbo and the Kajukenbo Self-Defense Institute (KSDI), we are deeply proud of the worldwide community that continues to share his art. For more than seven decades, Kajukenbo has grown through courage, discipline, and the spirit of Ohana that Sijo instilled in all his students.
It concerns us, however, to see a growing number of individuals and organizations using the names KSDI or Kajukenbo Self-Defense Institute without proper authorization. We know this is often done out of respect for the art, but when the name and crest are used without permission, it creates confusion, division, and misrepresentation within the very community Sijo built to unite.
To preserve Sijo’s legacy, the Emperado family established KSDI Worldwide, the only official nonprofit organization authorized to hold and protect the following registered trademarks:
Kajukenbo Self-Defense Institute (KSDI)
Kajukenbo KSDI Emperado Method
Emperado KSDI Worldwide
Kajukenbo Self-Defense Institute (KSDI) Crest Trademark
Kajukenbo Self-Defense Institute (KSDI) Naming Trademark
These trademarks are not about ownership for profit—they exist to safeguard authenticity, ensure that instruction and representation remain true to Kajukenbo’s roots, and protect future generations from misinformation or misuse.
We want to be clear: any individual or organization wishing to use the KSDI name, crest, or related imagery must have written authorization from KSDI Worldwide. UNAUTHORIZED USE IS NOT PERMITTED.
Still, our purpose is not punishment—it is restoration. We sincerely invite those who wish to represent KSDI or align with Sijo’s lineage to reach out to us. We will gladly work with you to ensure your efforts are supported, recognized, and properly authorized within the KSDI Worldwide family.
Let us move forward together, with respect, integrity, and unity, preserving the name and the art that changed so many lives.
With gratitude and aloha,
The Emperado Family
on behalf of KSDI Worldwide
🌐 https://www.kajukenbo.com/directory/ksdi
