National Police Woman Day

National Police Woman Day is an annual American holiday dedicated to honoring the contributions of women in the police force, observed on September 12.

History

The origins of National Police Woman Day date back to 1924, when women began joining the New York police force, initially tasked with guarding and searching prisoners. However, Marie Owens, who became a police officer in Chicago in 1891, is recognized as the first American female police officer. Early on, women mainly worked on cases involving minors and labor law violations. Their roles expanded significantly when Alice Wells joined the Los Angeles Police Department in 1910 and became a strong advocate for the inclusion of women in law enforcement, paving the way for future generations.

Today, women make up about 13% of the police force in the United States, a notable increase from just 3% approximately forty years ago.

Interesting Facts

• Police work in the United States is considered both honorable and well-compensated.
• Police Academy training is challenging, with only about 5% of applicants successfully completing the program.
• Women undergo the same rigorous physical and mental training as their male counterparts.

How to Take Part

Celebrate National Police Woman Day by recognizing and appreciating women in law enforcement. Express your gratitude to female police officers you know or encounter, acknowledging their dedication and service. Share about the day on social media, participate in or organize events to honor policewomen, and encourage community support for these professionals.

When is National Police Woman Day in 2025?

National Police Woman Day is observed on September 12 each year.

Observations