Kristin Crowley’s recent nomination as the first female chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has left many wondering if this monumental moment in the LAFD’s 136-year history would have occurred if it had not been under fire due to sexual harassment accusations. On January 18th, 2022, Crowley was officially nominated as the chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). However, her nomination does not signify a breakthrough moment for representation in this field. 

This nomination came after many women bravely spoke out and shared their experiences of sexism, harassment, and bullying throughout their years working for the LAFD. The Los Angeles Times interviewed one of these women, Katie Becker, about her specific situation. Becker stated, “They [male firefighters] make it clear that you’re not welcome as a woman.” However, it is not just Becker who feels this way. A recent survey about the LAFD reported that over half of female employees have experienced some form of harassment. Even then, those women are only the ones brave enough to speak out about their traumatizing experiences. 

Although Crowley is undoubtedly a positive step forward for the LAFD, she does not erase the issues still existing inside the firehouses. Many are asking if Crowley would have even been named chief if not for the scrutiny facing the LAFD. This situation sheds light on a larger debate: is all diversity good diversity? Today, with a strong culture around “canceling” problematic people, brands, and corporations, can we still appreciate the later efforts they create? 

Some say no: if someone is only hired or appointed in order to avoid criticism, there is no way it can be considered an honest, positive step for that company. Others argue that any effort to change and diversify a workplace is positive. For example, the past Chief of the LAFD, Ralph Terrazas, was urged to retire after utterly ignoring all accusations of harassment and rejecting the demands of female firefighters. Terrazas refused to address the public regarding sexual assault claims and the situation within the LAFD. 

On the contrary, Kristin Crowley has not shied away from the topic. She said, “The intention here and now is to ensure that all of our members, both women and men, come to work and feel safe and feel heard…If that type of behavior [sexual harassment] is occurring, that will not be tolerated. Period.” While Crowley brings a new hope and vision for the future of the LAFD, the attempts to cover up the sexism in the system by hiring her will not be ignored. Ultimately, this event is highly memorable for the LAFD, but despite strong efforts, the public will not forget the origin of this hire.

Written by Leah U. ’23