(WGHP) — Across the nation, only 14% of police officers are women. However, a national initiative is trying to push that number to 30% by 2030.
“I wanted to do something that means something,” said Chief Kelly Blackwelder with the Elon Police Department.
Taking the oath to protect and serve was easy for Blackwelder, but what followed was more difficult.
“We had nearly 100 officers, and I think we had eight women,” Blackwelder said. “I realized pretty quickly I was going to have to work twice as hard … so my male counterparts saw me as an equal not as a liability.”
Her experience is one countless women in law enforcement can relate to but also one that’s worth it.
“It’s lonely being the only person in the room,” said Assistant Chief Stephanie Mardis with the Greensboro Police Department. “Creating a space where I felt comfortable and could really grow into my own skin was something I had to mature into … If I can do it, anyone can.”
Both Blackwelder and Mardis say female officers serve a unique purpose and sometimes fill a void that not all male officers can.