Ruby Ridge Survivor Sara Weaver Receives 2024 Woman of Courage Award from Bonner County Republican Women Inc

The Bonner County Republican Women Inc. (BCRWI) honored Sara Weaver, author of “Ruby Ridge to Freedom,” as the 2024 Woman of Courage (WOC) award recipient. The award ceremony was held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at a well-attended luncheon at the Elks Lodge in Ponderay, ID, where community members gathered to celebrate her remarkable resilience and strength.

The event highlighted Sara Weaver’s transformation from a survivor of national tragedy to an author and peace advocate. Her book, Ruby Ridge to Freedom, captures this transformation and offers insights into healing and forgiveness.

Sara Weaver's life story is a profound testament to strength and grace. She survived the harrowing Ruby Ridge standoff in 1992, a federal siege that began on August 21 and led to the tragic deaths of her 14-year-old brother, Sam, and her unarmed mother, Vicki Weaver. This confrontation stemmed from what was later considered a flawed federal attempt to arrest Sara's father, Randy Weaver, over firearms violations, exacerbated by a mistaken court date as documented in a 1994 U.S. Department of Justice report.

During the luncheon, Sara shared her journey of trauma incurred from standing next to her mother when she was shot and killed at Ruby Ridge to becoming an advocate for peace and understanding. Despite the profound losses and the injustices she experienced, Sara's story is one of remarkable forgiveness.

Much of her speech to the group emphasized her growth after becoming a Christian and learning forgiveness through prayer and Bible Study. She stressed the example of Christ by quoting the scriptures that led her to her faith,

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son. That whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”  ..... John 3:16

"For God did not send His Son, Jesus, into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved."   ..... John 3:17

Sara continues to support law enforcement, distinguishing the actions of the individuals involved at Ruby Ridge from the broader community of those in uniform. This remarkable spirit of forgiveness and resilience were key reasons she was chosen for this year's BCRWI Woman of Courage award.

Victoria Quinn, BCRWI President, commented on Sara's selection:

"We look for women to honor who have overcome tough challenges while holding to their faith and conservative values. Sara serves as an outstanding role model who exemplifies the principles upon which our country was founded."

Sara's husband, Marc Balter prayed for Sara and her message throughout her speech to the Republican group.  This is his practice whenever Sara makes an appearance.  He and Sara sell handmade woven rugs and her book. You can find both at her website, Ruby Ridge to Freedom or their Etsy Store.

In the years following Ruby Ridge, Sara has dedicated herself to sharing her story and advocating for a deeper understanding of the events and their impact. She speaks passionately about the importance of community, faith, and the human capacity to rise above adversity. Sara does not harbor resentment against law enforcement as a whole but instead emphasizes that the actions of a few do not represent the entirety.

The BCRWI has honored women with the Woman of Courage title by recognizing those who embody courage and a commitment to conservative values. Past recipients include distinguished individuals such as Dorothy Moon, Chairwoman of the Idaho Republican Party, and the late Dr. Pamela Bird, a renowned author, inventor, pilot, and businesswoman.