DAYTON, Ohio — The Dayton Police Department announced it's joining law enforcement agencies across the country for an initiative that aims to improve representation and experiences of sworn women in all ranks.
Through the 30x30 Initiative, agencies work to ensure policies are free of bias, promote equitable hiring, retention, and promotion of women officers, as well as ensure an inclusive culture, according to a release.
The 30x30 Initiative, according to Dayton police, is based on social science research that shows a greater representative of women in police agencies leads to better outcomes for communities. The goal is for women to make up 30% of recruit classes by 2030, according to a release.
According to the 30x30 Initiative website, women make up less than 14% of sworn officers and 20% of recruits in state and local law enforcement agencies.
"Our department is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting a diverse group of officers who bring different perspectives and strengths to policing," said Chief Kamran Afzal. "Joining the 30x30 Initiative is an important step toward ensuring that women have equal opportunities to thrive in law enforcement careers while helping us better serve the people of Dayton."
Over the next few weeks, the police department plans to assess policies and practices to ensure changes are made to align with the 30x30 Initiative.
"We are grateful to the Dayton Police Department for committing to being part of this growing movement," said Maureen McGough, co-founder of the 30x30 Initiative and former policing expert at the U.S. Deparetment of Justice. "We believe strongly that advancing women in policing is critical to improving public safety outcomes."
