Richland Pledges to Advance Women in Policing

The Richland Police Department has pledged to participate in the “National 30x30 Initiative”. This Pledge includes a series of actions policing agencies can take to improve the representation and experiences of women in law enforcement. This national initiative aims to improve public safety, community outcomes, and trust in law enforcement.

The Pledge is the foundational effort of the 30x30 Initiative – a coalition of police leaders, researchers, and professional organizations who have joined together to advance the representation and experiences of women in all ranks of policing across the United States.  The 30x30 Initiative is affiliated with the Policing Project at NYU School of Law and the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE).

The ultimate goal of the 30x30 Initiative is to reach 30 percent of women in police recruit classes by 2030 and to ensure policing agencies are truly representative of the jurisdiction the agency serves. While 30x30 is focused on advancing women in policing, these principles are applicable to all demographic diversity, not just gender. 

Richland Police Chief Brigit Clary says, “I am proud to announce the Richland Police Department’s participation in the 30x30 Initiative, which is aimed at increasing the representation and advancement of women in law enforcement. We believe that a highly qualified, diverse workforce not only benefits our department but also strengthens our relationship with the community we serve. By committing to this initiative, we hope to help create a more equitable and just law enforcement system for all.” 

More than 275 agencies, from major metro departments including the New York City Police Department to mid-sized, rural, university, and state policing agencies have signed the 30x30 Pledge. The Pledge is based on social science research that greater representation of women on police forces leads to better policing outcomes for communities.

Currently, women make up only 12 percent of sworn officers and 3 percent of police leadership in the U.S. This underrepresentation of women in policing has significant public safety implications. Research suggests that women officers:

1. Use less force and less excessive force
2. Are named in fewer complaints and lawsuits
3. Are perceived by communities as being more honest and compassionate
4. See better outcomes for crime victims, especially in sexual assault cases
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For more information, visit www.30x30initiative.org.