The Lincoln Police Department has joined 35 other law enforcement agencies across the country in signing the 30×30 Pledge, a series of low and no-cost actions that police agencies can take to improve the representation and experiences of women in law enforcement. These actions will help police agencies assess any gender equity issues, identify factors that may be driving any disparities and develop strategies to eliminate barriers and advance women in policing. They also address recruitment, assessment, hiring, retention, promotion and agency culture.
The ultimate goal of the 30×30 Initiative is for women to compose 30 percent of police recruit classes by 2030 and to ensure policing agencies are truly representative of the jurisdiction the agency serves. Lincoln Police say while 30×30 is focused on advancing women in policing, these principles are applicable to all demographic diversity, not just gender.
According to Acting Assistant Chief Michon Morrow, “By signing this pledge, the Lincoln Police Department renews its commitment to actively working toward improving the representation and experiences of women officers in our agency. We look forward to working with and learning from agencies across the country who share this priority.”
Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird says, “The 30×30 Initiative further demonstrates the City of Lincoln’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. As we have engaged the public in our search for the next Chief of Police, we have heard the desire of our residents to have the police force reflect the diversity of our community. I am committed to providing the resources needed to enhance our ability to attract and retain female officers to help achieve this goal.”
Morrow says the 30×30 Pledge is based on social science research indicating that greater representation of women on police forces leads to better policing outcomes for communities.The research suggests that women officers use less excessive force, are named in fewer complaints and lawsuits, are perceived by their communities as being more compassionate and see better outcomes for sexual assault victims.