National Police Woman Day

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

History

The roots of National Police Woman Day can be traced back to 1924 when women started joining the New York police force, primarily assigned to guard and search prisoners. However, Marie Owens, who became a police officer in 1891 in Chicago, is considered the first American female police officer. Initially focusing on cases involving minors and labor law violations, women’s roles in policing expanded significantly when Alice Wells joined the Los Angeles Police Department in 1910. She championed the inclusion of women in law enforcement, paving the way for future generations.

Today, women constitute about 13% of the police force in the U.S., a significant increase from the 3% about four decades ago.

Interesting Facts

• Police work in the US is regarded as honorable and well-compensated.
• The Police Academy training is rigorous, with only about 5% of applicants completing the program.
• Women undergo the same strenuous physical and mental training as their male counterparts.

How to Take Part

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

When is National Police Woman Day in 2024?

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

Observations