Skip to main content
GOPRIDE

Los Angeles names its first-ever female and LGBTQ fire department chief

By GoPride.com News Staff 1-minute read
Kristin Crowley
Kristin Crowley LAFD
The Los Angeles City Council on Tuesday unanimously confirmed the appointment of Deputy Chief Kristin Crowley to lead the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Crowley is not only L.A.'s first female fire chief; she's the department's first openly LGBTQ leader.

The Los Angeles LGBT Center called the appointment a "historic confirmation."

“She has dedicated more than two decades—previously as the City's first female and first LGBTQ Deputy Chief Fire Marshal—to serving our communities and ensuring the safety and well-being of all Los Angeles residents,” said Executive Director Joe Hollendoner. “We cannot imagine a more qualified candidate for the job.”

Mayor Eric Garcetti nominated Crowley, a 22-year department veteran, in January.

“We thank the City Council for unanimously approving Crowley's appointment, and we commend Mayor Garcetti for nominating her from the beginning,” said Hollendoner.

Crowley joins a handful of pioneering LGBTQ fire chiefs nationwide.

Her appointment comes as the department faces claims that its female employees face bullying and harassment.

Crowley will replace Ralph Terrazas, who became the department's first Latino chief in 2014.


CareerNational NewsLesbianJoe HollendonerKristin CrowleyLos AngelesLos Angeles Fire DepartmentLos Angeles LGBT Center

Recent stories

Interviews and voices