By Saskia Warrick
The two-day Women in Law Enforcement Summit, held at the Officers’ Training Centre, concluded with a focus on “Inspiring Inclusion, Advancing Women in Law Enforcement,” advocates for inclusivity and advancement.
Deputy Commissioner Calvin Brutus highlighted the significant progress made by women in law enforcement, acknowledging their strength, resilience, and commitment to citizen safety.
However, he emphasized that the journey toward true inclusivity is ongoing, particularly regarding women’s underrepresentation in leadership roles within law enforcement agencies.
Brutus emphasized that this underrepresentation not only limits the potential of talented officers but also erodes community trust and undermines policing effectiveness.
Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including fostering internal inclusion and strengthening community engagement.
The summit aimed to explore critical topics essential for unlocking the full potential of women in law enforcement.
Strategies discussed included dismantling unconscious bias in promotion processes through fair evaluation procedures, blind selection panels, and targeted training programs focused on leadership development for women.
Additionally, the summit highlighted the potential of technology to empower women officers, streamline processes, and enhance overall safety.
From utilizing body cameras and investigative software to exploring advancements in communication and data analysis, technology was identified as a powerful tool for women in law enforcement.
The Women in Law Enforcement Summit was a collaborative effort between the Guyana Police Force, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Women’s Chamber of Commerce.