30Forward

York Regional Police Joins 30Forward pledge to increase representation of women across service

Deputy Chief Cecile Hammond signs the 30Forward pledge on behalf of York Regional Police

York Regional Police is proud to be one of the first police services in the province to sign the 30Forward pledge, committing to a future where at least 30 per cent of our sworn officers are women.

Today, less than 23 per cent of police officers in Canada identify as women. The 30Forward initiative aims to push that number above 30 per cent. Research shows that when underrepresented groups reach 30 per cent representation in a profession, they gain the ability to shape culture, drive innovation and influence decision-making in meaningful ways.

The 30Forward initiative is inspired by the global 30x30 initiative, which is working to increase representation of women in U.S. police services and beyond. 30Forward is tailored for Canadian police services, and many have signed on to this pledge to create a fair and inclusive workforce that better reflects the communities they serve. The initiative aims not only to boost recruitment of women but to retain and foster the progression of women officers.

Data has shown women officers use force less often and less excessively when they do. Women make fewer arrests for non-violent, low-level offences, conduct fewer searches during traffic stops and are more likely to find contraband when they do. They also see better outcomes for crime victims – especially sexual assault victims – and are named less often in complaints and lawsuits.

Women in law enforcement face barriers in promotion, flexibility around family responsibilities, gendered performance expectations, retention and a lack of mentorship.

Only 20.23 per cent of York Regional Police sworn members identify as women, but our service has made significant progress dismantling barriers through women-centric recruiting initiatives and programs designed to offer more flexibility and work-life balance for officers. This progress has been accomplished through representation among senior leaders (21 per cent), robust mentoring, and equity-focused organizational planning and training.

“While much has been accomplished to create greater gender equity at our service, there is more work to do,” said Chief Jim MacSween. “Our commitment continues, to empower women in policing, create opportunities and build a culture where everyone can thrive.”  

“York Regional Police has committed publicly to transparency and examining systemic barriers that exist for women in policing,” said Deputy Chief of People & Culture Cecile Hammond. “This isn’t about lowering standards. It’s about raising opportunities and inspiring the next generation of policing leaders.”

Learn more at 30forward.ca.