Finding Strength in Voice, Not Violence

This week, our nation was shaken by the tragic news of Charlie Kirk’s assassination in Utah. Regardless of where you stand politically, the reality is this: a human life was cut short because of his beliefs. And that is never acceptable.

History has shown us that time and again, silencing people through violence does not destroy their message; it only deepens the wounds of division. Martin Luther King Jr., John F. Kennedy, Mahatma Gandhi, and countless others were targeted not because of who they were as people, but because they dared to speak boldly about what they believed. And each time, the world was left not stronger but fractured and grieving.

As women who aspire to lead, we must reflect on this moment. Leadership is not about forcing others to see things in our way. True leadership, the kind that empowers, inspires, and transforms is about holding firm to our beliefs while creating space for others to hold theirs.

To be powerful women in today’s world, we must embrace three truths:

1st  Your Voice is Your Power

The ability to articulate your beliefs, share your experiences, and challenge the status quo is what sets leaders apart. We don’t need fists, weapons, or rage to make a difference. We need conviction, clarity, and courage.

2nd  Disagreement is Not Destruction

We will not always agree with each other. In fact, strong women often stand on very different sides of issues. But disagreement doesn’t have to mean division. Choosing dialogue over destruction is not weakness, it’s wisdom.

3rd  Empowerment Means Elevating, Not Silencing

When we resort to tearing others down whether it is through words, actions, or violence, we diminish our own power. Real empowerment comes when we listen as fiercely as we speak, when we hold our ground without pushing others off theirs, and when we stand tall enough to disagree without hatred.

The world is tired. Tired of extremes. Tired of the constant “us versus them.” Tired of watching violence erupt where conversation should have taken place. As women, we have an opportunity and a responsibility to change that.

Imagine what could happen if more of us led with compassion, stood strong in our values, and created space for others to do the same. That is the kind of leadership that changes families, communities, and nations.

So today, let us commit to certain facts such as we will be powerful not because we silence others, but because we use our voices to inspire, uplift, and lead.

When women choose voice over violence, and conviction over coercion, we don’t just change the conversation, we change the world.