Answer: asserting

AnswerCrossword Clue
ASSERTINGSticking up for (oneself)
ASSERTINGStating
assertingState a fact or belief confidently and forcefully
assertingCause others to recognize (one's authority or a right) by confident and forceful behavior
assertingASSERT, to state positively
assertingBehave or speak in a confident and forceful manner