Nobel Peace Prize Honors Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and More

The 2011 Nobel Peace Prize ceremony was held over the weekend in Olso, Norway and three courageous and outstanding women were honored for their “non-violent struggle against injustice, sexual violence and repression,” according to CNN.

PHOTOS: 40 Black Women Who Rock

Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Leymah Gbowee, a Liberian social worker and peace campaigner, and Tawakkui Karman, a noted activist and journalist, were awarded the prize. Each leader received her own gold Nobel medal and diploma. Together, they will share in the $1.5M prize money.

PHOTOS: 40 Women Who Have Changed the World

The Chairman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, Thorbjorn Jagland, said, “Ever since the Norwegian Nobel Committee made this year’s decision known, the people of Norway have looked forward to seeing you on this stage. You give concrete meaning to the Chinese proverb which says that ‘women hold up half the sky,’ we thank you for the hope you awaken in us all.”

Each recipient dedicated their thank-you remarks to women who continue to fight for equal rights around the globe.

President Sirleaf said it best: “Be not afraid to denounce injustice, though you may be outnumbered. Be not afraid to seek peace, even if your voice may be small. Be not afraid to demand peace.”

Congratulations to the winners — may they continue to uplift and inspire.