Women constitute the most influential voting bloc of any constituency. We have registered and voted at higher rates than men in every presidential election since 1980. It has been a predictable trend for 44 years, playing a crucial role in shaping electoral outcomes. We need to recognize the power felt at the ballot box because it can empower other areas of life in a capitalist society.

You don’t have to self-identify as a feminist to bristle in resistance when you hear the voice of a 34-count felon and sexual predator barking out authoritarian orders. When Trump attacked diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), Mayor Cara Spencer buckled under the threat and quickly put the pause button on the City’s Contract Compliance and Certification program. This hard-fought reform ensured that legitimate women and minority businesses got their fair share of business that was once automatically funneled to white males.

Most readers of the St. Louis American rejoiced when they saw the photo of five African American female firefighters who were promoted to the rank of captain. The backdrop is that most of them stayed on a promotions list for a decade, knowing they were absolutely qualified for their promotions.

Like the police department, the fire department is a hierarchy propped up by racism and sexism. In a department of nearly 600 firefighters, only 33 women have broken into the good ole boys’ network since 1987, so you know they had to fight like hell to stay and excel.

Fast forward, and there are only six Black female captains and zero Black female battalion chiefs. Between unfair testing practices, manipulating promotion lists and lawsuits, the fire department has been in a cycle of lawsuits that witness occasional breakthroughs for women and Black firefighters. The department needs a big infusion of DEI, and women can lead the way.

I had similar feelings when I read about the recent negotiations in the WNBA. I’m happy about the landmark agreement that brings women a tad closer to the pay of male basketball players. I’ve written about their paltry salaries over the years, and they are still a ways from genuine parity. The national basketball league needs a big infusion of DEI, and women will lead the way.

You don’t have to be a feminist to look at the lineup of women in the trump cabinet and feel disgusted and betrayed. Kristi Noem, former Attorney General Pam Bondi, Karoline Leavitt, Susie Wiles, Tulsi Gabbard, Linda McMahon, Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Alina Habba, Kelly Loeffler and Brooke Rollins should be ashamed of themselves—as women and as human beings. They have given up their power to protect the most corrupt and immoral band of men in the history of the U.S. government. Clearly, not every woman is a feminist.

When women know their actual and potential power, our progress will be faster, more impactful and more lasting. Our sassiness is not misguided pride, but confidence in our humanity and our ability to change the world. Along the way, we will attract sincere, self-respecting men as allies in the fight for equality, equity and a more just and peaceful world.