On Friday, June 13, 2008, Captain Vanessa Coleman (one of only two female Captains, assigned to firefighting) spoke as a guest on the WPFW (89.3FM) radio talk show “In Our Voices”, hosted by Madame/Sister Nkenge Toure. Some of the following topics were discussed on this segment:
- Open Practice of Racism amongst the rank-and-file especially toward Minorities
- How members like Captain Coleman have been targeted by head officials, for reporting indecent and unfair treatment; i.e. Racial Discrimination, Sexism, Nepotism, Retaliation, Harassment, and Disparity of Treatment
- The systematic breakdown of resources within the department which are no longer dependable for obtaining relief, and, that the integrity of relief is likely to be compromised due to a prejudicial conflict of interest
- The Lack of Equal and Diversified Hiring especially of Minority City Residents
- The lack of quality recruit EMS instruction provided at the main Training Academy, especially training specifically designed for new entry level recruits to the field of Firefighting & EMS
- Nkenge asked Captain Coleman (18 year Veteran) about her 1st fire. Captain Coleman shared that the day the fire call came in, there was great anticipation, a little fear, but mostly the knowledge that she had a job to do; and with the assistance of her team, she fulfilled her job, successfully putting the fire out.
- In many words, Captain Coleman expressed that there are many personal insecurities and ignorance which provoke the abuse toward women in the male-dominated culture of the fire department. Nonetheless, despite all opposition, women have proven over and over again, that they can “do the job”, and do it well! Now, the network and bond has become stronger through the integration of lady firefighters, EMT’s and paramedics.
So there you have it, at a glimpse! Diversity, in all its splendor - beauty, brains & strength. They’ve joined their forces as “Women Serving in the Fire Service”.
- Captain Coleman suggested that those who share the reported concerns regarding the issues of racism, sexism, and disparity in the fire department – should continue expressing their concerns and demands for change to Fire Chief Dennis Rubin, The Mayor, their Ward Councilmember. I will venture to add that you share it with anyone and everyone who will listen and is willing to aid you in making a positive change! “You must let your voice be heard...Stand Up & Be Counted!” You can obtain all government official contact information through the www.dc.gov website.
And... stay tuned for the complete record of the interview, coming shortly.
3 comments:
This back when Capt had to go into a fire. I wonder what Chief Rudder would say about the Capt Coleman?
"The systematic breakdown of resources within the department which are no longer dependable for obtaining relief, and, that the integrity of relief is likely to be compromised due to a prejudicial conflict of interest "
Talk about relief, you're lucky if the African Americans get to work by 5 minutes to 7 on my shift.
I personally think what goes around comes around. Vanessa has over the years did a lot of what we call reverse discrimination against a lot of blacks on the job. she's not the angel she is portrayed to be. She has alot of unresolved chidhood issues AND ALL HER SKELETONS IS FALLING OUT OF HER CLOSET. SHE CAN'T CATCH ALL OF THEM.
Post a Comment