In Kansas City, Jeri Persley, a 53-year-old business owner and certified pistol instructor, is making significant strides in diversifying the firearms training landscape. As the founder of Be Empowered Tactical, Persley offers firearm safety classes tailored to women, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Her journey began in 2015 when she purchased her first handgun for personal protection. Initially, like many women, she was hesitant and unsure about the world of firearms. But over time, she became increasingly confident and proficient in using her weapon. However, she noticed a glaring issue: a lack of representation in firearm training, especially for Black women. There were few instructors who truly understood the unique concerns and needs of women, particularly those in minority communities. Persley saw this gap and decided to fill it, becoming a certified instructor in 2022. Her classes are designed to create a comfortable and relatable environment for her students. She emphasizes that empowerment goes beyond simply handling firearms; it's about building confidence, self-reliance, and an understanding of personal safety. Many of her students come to her classes with apprehensions, but by the end of the session, they often experience a transformation, shedding their fears and embracing their newfound skills with confidence. Persleys training methodology isnt just about shooting; it's about developing a mindset that fosters safety, confidence, and empowerment. She takes the time to educate each participant on the responsibilities that come with firearm ownership, ensuring that safety and legal awareness are prioritized. One of the most important aspects of Persleys approach is her belief in progress at ones own pace. She doesnt rush her students or make them feel overwhelmed by the technicalities of firearm use. Instead, she fosters a patient and supportive environment where each woman can move forward when she feels ready. This not only ensures that each student gains confidence with firearms, but also helps to build long-lasting trust in their ability to protect themselves. Persley believes that seeing someone who looks like themwhether it's a Black instructor or a woman in a male-dominated industrycan make a huge difference in how women perceive their own capabilities in the firearms world. Representation in this space is essential for empowering women to take charge of their own safety. In addition to her classes, Persley also works to build a community around her teaching, hosting events, and offering personal safety tips. She hopes to inspire more women, especially those from marginalized communities, to feel empowered in their ability to defend themselves. She also advocates for mental preparedness, emphasizing that having a firearm isnt just about the physical act of shooting but being mentally prepared for the responsibilities that come with it. Persleys work is a testament to the shift taking place in the firearms community, where diversity and inclusion are not only welcomed but necessary for its evolution.