President’s Pen – November 2023
As we close the books on an incredibly successful TFRW convention, I am humbled and energized by the passion, dedication, and vision exhibited during our three days together in Irving. Throughout the convention, we celebrated our achievements and charted the course for our future. It was an honor to welcome our new officers and I look forward to watching TFRW grow and succeed under President Zenia Warren’s leadership.
Our convention would not have been as successful without Convention Chair Cindy Burkett and her convention team who worked tirelessly to ensure every detail and every moment of the convention was meticulously crafted for your enjoyment. Because of their efforts, our convention theme, Iron Ladies – Forging the Future, resonated throughout each inspiring day and harnessed the energy and passion that defines TFRW Iron Ladies.
Our speakers were a source of inspiration. The overriding theme from speakers, elected officials and workshop facilitators was the need for unity; how our party is stronger when we work together; and that Republican Women are the party’s strength, heart, and soul.
As Lt. Governor Dan Patrick stated, “We have serious issues before us. We don’t know what the future holds, but one thing I know for sure is if we don’t fight against the left, we will lose.”
It was also stated that our party must strive for UNITY, NOT UNIFORMITY, and I could not agree more. We will be successful in our 2024 fight against the left when we commit to being united.
A healthy party should welcome individual viewpoints and ideas. The essence of unity lies in mutual respect and understanding, where people with varying perspectives work toward a common purpose and there is strength through collaboration.
Uniformity, however, seeks to impose a single way of thinking or acting. Demanding uniformity can lead to internal divisions and conflicts. These divisions weaken the party and can lead to a narrowing of the party’s base and a loss of voters.
Ladies, let us carry with us the spirit of unity, enthusiasm, and of Rosie the Riveter that filled the convention halls as we return to our communities and continue to forge the future we believe in. Let’s channel that passion into our grassroots efforts, our campaigns, and our community projects. Let’s support one another, mentor the next generation, and continue to be the driving force in shaping the political landscape of Texas.
In closing, I want to express my deep gratitude to each one of you for making 2022-2023 and our 34th Biennial Convention a resounding success! Your commitment to TFRW, Texas and our country is truly remarkable, and I am immensely proud to stand among such dedicated, inspiring Republican women. It is the dedication of each of you that keeps TFRW moving forward, and together, we will continue to make a profound and positive impact on the future of our great state of Texas.
Thank you, and may God bless the United States of America.
Kit Whitehill
TFRW President
