Empowering Women in the Phoenix Police Department
30x30 Initiative
Phoenix Police Department proudly supports the 30x30 Initiative. 30x30 Initiative is a coalition of police leaders, researchers and professional organizations joining together to advance the representation and experiences of women in policing agencies across the United States.
A major initiative is to increase the percentage of women in police recruit classes to 30% by 2030. In advancement of this initiative, the Phoenix Police Department utilizes work groups to advance recruiting, retention, promotion and education.
A Commitment to Equality
Phoenix Police Department is committed to creating a workplace that represents and includes every person that makes our community great. As an employer, we consistently evaluate our policies and procedures to eliminate biases or barriers. Part of this evaluation process is recognizing that women are under-represented in policing. According to research by the 30x30 Initiative, currently, women only make up 12% of sworn officers. The City of Phoenix is slightly above the national average at 14%.
In 2023, Phoenix Police signed the 30×30 Pledge The goal is to increase the representation of women in police recruit classes to 30% by 2030. This pledge is built on decades of research that shows the unique benefits women officers bring to policing agencies.
PHX PD understands that women play an integral role throughout our ranks and as part of this initiative, we will assess the current state of gender equity on the department, identify drivers of disparity, and develop and implement strategies and solutions. Throughout this self-assessment, we will work to understand and reduce the barriers that keep women from joining the police department and identify factors that make it harder for women to advance to leadership positions.
To learn more about PHX PD’s 30x30 Pledge.
View the City’s Statement of Commitment.
Community Connection:
An inclusive police department is better equipped to understand and connect with the community we serve, fostering trust and good relations.
Innovation:
Varied backgrounds and experiences bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the realities of modern policing.
Representation:
Officer Majerle Tsenes
In this video Officer Majerle Tsenes of the Phoenix Police Department highlights the importance of constant preparedness in policing, noting that every call is unique. She shares how a university internship inspired her law enforcement career and emphasizes the need for training, confidence, and decisiveness in the field. Officer Tsenes also discusses her role in community engagement and problem-solving. She's motivated by being a positive role model for her siblings and taking pride in her profession.
Detective Erika Johnson
In this video Detective Erika Johnson of the Phoenix Police Department shares her unique journey of how her previous career as a licensed mental health therapist supports her current role. From an early age Johnson felt a calling to help people, particularly in addressing mental health issues. Her career in law enforcement was inspired by her father, who made a positive impact as a School Resource Officer (SRO). Johnson served as an SRO herself, where she recognized the connection between her role as a police officer and assisting individuals with mental health challenges. This led her to become a crisis intervention officer. Now, she integrates her counseling background into crisis intervention work. Officer Johnson is passionate about showcasing an empathetic approach to law enforcement.
Join the Women of PHX PD
Are you ready to be part of a department that supports the success of women throughout their careers? PHX PD is committed to the goals of the 30x30 Initiative to ensure policies and procedures are free from bias and promote fair hiring and retention, across all ranks. Explore our opportunities today and start a rewarding career.
