Are you interested in joining the DEI Committee?
By Mark
Correira
“Two-hundred
years of tradition unimpeded by progress” – a favorite phrase of many fire
service members. Change can be difficult and uncomfortable, but necessary if we
are going to make a difference in our communities. I raise this as a
conversation starter on diversity and inclusion in the fire service.
The
Fire Service lacks diversity. Career firefighters in the United States are 96%
male, and 82% are white. Even the military (85% male, 60% white) and law
enforcement (88% male, 73% white) are more inclusive. These statistics point to
the need to diversify our workforce and create a more inclusive fire service
culture.
The
Washington Fire Chiefs Board of Directors recently took two actions to begin
tackling this topic. First, they published a statement on racism. This
statement announced the Association’s commitment to positive change. The Board
also approved the creation of a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Committee. This Committee will have the responsibility of assisting the
Association and the fire service in beginning the conversation on diversity, equity
and inclusion.
Although
this committee will be empowered to set the best course, we envision them
recommending education and training, best practices, and other tools to help
local agencies tackle these issues. We also envision this committee partnering
with other WA Fire Service Associations to lead crucial conversations and
implement thoughtful action to create a fire service for all.
We need
your help. If you are passionate about this topic and want to see positive
change, we invite you to join this committee. If you or your staff are
interested in joining this team of progressive fire service leaders, please
contact the WA Fire Chiefs Office.