Breaking the Chains: Empowering Women to Rise Together
“Progress is not achieved in isolation; it happens when women come together to amplify their voices and support one another becoming a catalyst for growth.
In April 2024, I returned from Springfield, IL, where I had the pleasure of joining other groups advocating for increased funding for individuals facing homelessness and those without housing. Upon sharing a quote on Facebook, the response was incredible—overflowing with likes, comments, and uplifting emojis. Personally, it had been quite some time since I attended an in-person advocacy event due to COVID19, so the experience was invigorating, potent, and deeply refreshing. Witnessing and engaging with numerous women legislators who were amplifying their voices to empower others and enact change in laws was profoundly impactful.
Reflecting on why this particular post resonated so deeply, I found myself drawn to a profound realization. It dawned on me that one of the most impactful ways for women to amplify their voices, enact change, and influence legislation is through collaboration, not isolation. This revelation has stirred a sense of gratitude within me as I recognize the power that comes from uniting rather than standing alone.
In a world where the power of collective action is increasingly recognized, the significance of women coming together to amplify their voices cannot be overstated. As the quote aptly suggests, progress is not a solitary journey but rather a communal effort fueled by collaboration, solidarity, and mutual support. When women unite, they create a formidable force capable of breaking barriers, challenging norms, disrupting the status quo and driving positive change across various spheres of society.
The notion of women joining forces to amplify their impact is deeply rooted in history and has been pivotal in numerous social, political, and economic advancements. From the suffragette movements fighting for women's right to vote to modern-day advocacy campaigns for gender equality and representation, the collective power of women has been instrumental in shaping the course of history. Through shared experiences, common goals, and a commitment to uplifting one another, women have transformed setbacks into opportunities and barriers into stepping stones towards progress.
As a woman with over three decades of experience in the nonprofit industry, as well as serving as a pastor, leader of various women's groups, and a serial entrepreneur, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of community engagement. In my experience, when we actively encourage women to seek out and participate in communities—both online and offline, whenever possible—they can connect with like-minded individuals who share their goals and aspirations. By fostering these connections, we create spaces where women can thrive without fear of competition, instead finding support, mentorship, and solidarity in their journeys.
It is crucial for women to prioritize and promote intersectionality. This means not only acknowledging our diverse experiences but celebrating them. By embracing intersectionality, we cultivate inclusive spaces where every voice is not only heard but valued. This fosters a profound sense of belonging and solidarity that surpasses traditional boundaries, empowering women from various backgrounds. It's this embracing of diversity and unity that truly defines us as "Disruptors," challenging norms and driving meaningful change.
Finally, women must be encouraging and be unafraid to self-expression. We do this by empowering women to speak up, share their stories, and assert their worth in a world that often tries to silence them. Whether through writing, art, activism, or other forms of creative expression, encouraging women to find their voice and use them to advocate for themselves and others is essential for breaking the cycle of isolation and fostering a culture of empowerment and belonging. I’m a strong believer in supporting others, and as often said “Women Let’s Never Forget to Lift Others as We Climb”
Dr. Sanja Rickette Stinson, M.Ed, DMin
