Los Angeles names its first-ever female and LGBTQ fire department chief

Wed. March 2, 2022 12:44 PM by GoPride.com News Staff

kristin crowley

photo credit // lafd
The Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday unanimously confirmed the appointment of Deputy Chief Kristin Crowley to lead the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Crowley is not only L.A.'s first female fire chief; she's the department's first openly LGBTQ leader.

The Los Angeles LGBT Center called the appointment a "historic confirmation."

“She has dedicated more than two decades—previously as the City's first female and first LGBTQ Deputy Chief Fire Marshal—to serving our communities and ensuring the safety and well-being of all Los Angeles residents,” said Executive Director Joe Hollendoner. “We cannot imagine a more qualified candidate for the job.”

Mayor Eric Garcetti nominated Crowley, a 22-year department veteran, in January.

“We thank the City Council for unanimously approving Crowley's appointment, and we commend Mayor Garcetti for nominating her from the beginning,” said Hollendoner.

Crowley joins a handful of pioneering LGBTQ fire chiefs nationwide.

Her appointment comes as the department faces claims that its female employees face bullying and harassment.

Crowley will replace Ralph Terrazas, who became the department's first Latino chief in 2014.


 

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