Kristin Crowley, Los Angeles’ first female and openly gay fire chief is determined to make sure accountability and provide a better environment for all firefighters. She begins her first week as the department’s leader.
Crowley said that taking on this role is a huge responsibility and one that I fully embrace. Crowley shared his thoughts with Larry Mantle. AirTalkOur newsrooms public affairs program.
Crowley, a 22 year veteran of the department was sworn into office Last Friday. She was replaced Ralph TerrazasL.A.’s first Latino fire chief, who retired recently.
Many firefighters were there. He was called to resignTerrazas were accused of failing address the pervasive racism and sexist culture within LAFD.
Many people in the department were affected when the allegations of harmful culture were made. LAist spoke to several women last year, who felt that the men of the department were not caring. Sexual harassment and verbally abusing them. Firefighters of colour also felt there was “Preferential treatment“Given to white men. A white LAFD chief deputy, who was allegedly drunk while on the job, received no penalties and a $1.4million payout.
Crowley stated that all issues raised by the department are taken seriously and that everyone should feel at home, regardless of race or ethnicity.
It creates that space and a pathway forward of ensuring that we have accountability, she said.
Crowley answered a question about whether she faced sexism during her career. She said that while issues have occurred once in a while, her journey has been positive.
Crowley stated that when a problem did arise, she preferred to handle it at the lowest possible level. This meant she had a direct discussion with the person who had crossed the line.
What questions do Southern Californians have?
