The Morale of Women in Federal Law Enforcement
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The prompt for this round of the FEDforum is team morale. This week, hear from the Women in Federal Law Enforcement (WIFLE).
There is no better time to discuss team morale for women in federal law enforcement—and what exactly has the ability to diminish it. After all, you do not ask for much. In exchange for your hard work in supporting and defending the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, you mostly expect the modest compensation adorned by the General Schedule, but what if you could ask for more, what would it be?
Outsiders would likely guess you would want more money, an enhanced fringe benefit package, or high-tech gadgets. Sure, a new loaded, fast and less conspicuous G-car could reduce getting burned on surveillance and improve catching up to suspects. Or what about an expensive satellite phone to improve communications from remote field worksites?
These are nice things, they are analogous to the unseen components of federal law enforcement vitality. What women in federal law enforcement really need and want is intangible.
First, she wants to be heard. No more attempting to get a word in during meetings only to be drowned out by other voices. No more having your great suggestions discounted simply because they originated with you.
Second, she wants to be respected. Snide remarks questioning a woman’s motives for joining the ranks of law enforcement, like to find a spouse or a “desk job,” do not demonstrate respect. Working in policing is serious business for all, including women.
Third, she wants to be valued. Women are required to bring the same level of knowledge, skills and abilities specific to all positions of enforcement, intelligence and operations. Attitudes that diminish contributions based on gender adversely impact morale and place a team and agency at a disadvantage.
So, when searching for an ideal boost of morale for women in law enforcement, know that what she really wants is to do the best possible job. Give her the gift of support. Let her be heard. Respect her. Value her. These are just a few of her favorite things.
This column from the Women in Federal Law Enforcement (WIFLE) is part of the FEDforum, an initiative to unite voices across the federal community. The FEDforum is a space for federal employee and law enforcement groups to share their organizations’ initiatives and activities with the FEDagent audience.
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