RPD kicks off Women’s History Month with new pledge
Despite the fact that our fair city’s police chief is a female, the Raleigh Police Department is currently made up of only 12% women—a sobering statistic. To counter that stat, RPD is taking action to increase the number of women behind the badge. In celebration of Women’s History Month, the department announced it has taken the 30×30 Pledge to improve the representation and experiences of women in law enforcement and advance women in policing.
The Pledge serves as the foundation of the 3×30 Initiative, a coalition of police leaders, researchers and professional organizations whose goal is to reach 30% of women in police recruit classes by 2030. These principles apply to all demographic diversity in policing, not just gender.
By taking the 30×30 Pledge, RPD will assess the current state of its gender equity, identify factors that may be driving any disparities, and develop and implement strategies and solutions to eliminate barriers—think addressing recruitment, assessment, hiring, retention, promotion and agency culture.
Not only will bringing more women onto the force increase diversity, but research suggests female officers also use less excessive force; are named in fewer complaints and lawsuits; are perceived by communities as more honest and compassionate; and see better outcomes for crime victims, especially in sexual assault cases.
“Women bring unique skills, communication styles, and a level of maternal care and compassion that is needed for public safety,” Chief Estella Patterson tells Raleigh Magazine. “It takes a diversity of individuals to provide the best service to our community. Increasing women in law enforcement will bring us closer to reflecting the community we serve. And that is why the Raleigh Police Department is committing to the 30×30 Pledge.” For that, we salute you.
