It is my honor to lead the New York Women in Law Enforcement into an energized and inspired 2024. On the heels of the 2023 conference in Suffern, NY that should be an easy task, after hearing from such powerful speakers as former NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell and First Deputy Commissioner of the New York City Police Department Tania Kinsella. Like these very successful women, we have many strong role models right within the NYWLE organization. Some of these women have served as informal role models and mentors to me during my time in this organization.
As we progress through the next year, I will continue to look up to these mentors for guidance and direction. I will also look behind me so that I may raise up those who may be just starting out in their careers or those who may be going through their own challenges.
As I was looking for current statistics to include in this message, I came across the following information: Since 2021, there has been limited progress attracting women to law enforcement or getting women into leadership roles within law enforcement. Women in law enforcement appear to be stuck around the 13% mark of all law enforcement officers and just 3% are in leadership roles. However, through continued networking, training and socialization, we can do our part to increase these percentages by supporting other women throughout New York State.
Women bring unique strengths and qualities to law enforcement, such as compassion, patience and at times, the ability to communicate more effectively. For instance, a female officer may favor verbal de-escalation over physical force. Additionally, having female officers involved in community outreach may make police officers more approachable by the public.
I am so appreciative for all of the members who support and participate in the New York Women in Law Enforcement. I encourage each person who reads this message to join the NYWLE if you’re are not a member. And if you are a member, I implore you to reach out to at least one other person in the coming year and encourage them to join our efforts.