LAFD’s Diversity Efforts Spark Debate Amidst Soaring Wildfire Costs

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) finds itself at the center of controversy as debates over its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices intensify amidst the raging Southern California wildfires. With an estimated cost of $135 billion to $150 billion, these wildfires, including the Palisades Fire, which has already scorched 26,000 acres, have brought scrutiny to the department's priorities.

LAFD's senior leadership team comprises 14 members, with Deputy Chief Kristine Larson and Training and Support Bureau Commander Jaime Brown being the only two women apart from Fire Chief Kristin Crowley. Kristin Crowley, promoted in 2018, is the first woman to hold the top position and is openly lesbian. The department's DEI initiatives stem from past allegations of harassment and discrimination, notably a 2017 lawsuit by six black members of the Fire Prevention Bureau.

Criticism centers on Kristine Larson, who leads the Equity and Human Resources Bureau. Her defense of DEI hiring practices has been met with backlash. In a controversial statement, Larson remarked that people prefer firefighters who resemble them during emergencies.

“He got himself in the wrong place if I have to carry him out of a fire.” – Deputy Chief Kristine Larson

This comment has sparked outrage among critics, who argue that such views compromise LAFD's efficiency and focus during crises. Critics claim the department is too engrossed in DEI projects at the expense of adequately staffing and equipping firefighters.

“People are dying and losing their homes, right now, because of people like this,” – a user (no name mentioned)

“Los Angeles Fire Department Assistant Chief Kristine Larson says when people’s houses are burning down, they want a firefighter to show up who looks like them. Hot take: People just want someone to show up who will stop their house from burning down,” – Collin Rugg

With a salary of $307K in 2023, as reported by Transparent California, Larson's role in managing DEI projects has been costly. Her defense of these initiatives has intensified the debate over LAFD's focus on diversity versus operational efficiency.