The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is commemorating 75 years of invaluable contributions by women in the force through a year-long celebration under the theme ‘Equity, Empowerment, and Excellence’.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Karina Powell-Hood, who is the highest-ranked female officer in the JCF said: “Since January 1, 1949, when the JCF made history by becoming the first in the Commonwealth Caribbean to establish a dedicated women’s police unit, women police officers have given courageous and committed service to the JCF and the country. They have ably led the fight against crime, enforced the law against disorder and protected the vulnerable against abuses. And they have done so with sensitivity, grace and dignity.”

According to ACP Powell-Hood, the major milestone will be recognised by sharing the history of women police officers, highlighting their contributions and showing appreciation for their role and service in policing with three main events.

Festivities start on Friday (March 8), International Women’s Day, when the JCF will host an elegant ‘PowHER Up’ Marketplace and Cocktail Reception for sworn and unsworn women from across all divisions under the theme “Inspired Women, Inspiring Women.”

“This special event will be catering to approximately 500 females in the Force – sworn and unworn – with a focus on areas that matter to them, such as health, wealth, beauty and relaxation. We have partnered with several organisations to ensure this is a meaningful event for our women, including the Ministry of Health, Jamaica Police Co-operative Credit Union (JPCCU), Sagicor Bank, Seprod, HEART College of Beauty Services, JMMB, Leisure for Pleasure and LASCO,” said Senior Superintendent (SSP) Stephanie Lindsay.

There will also be ‘Wellness for Women Cops’ Area forums each quarter during the year. Lindsay says each forum will provide a safe space for women police to explore and expand conversations on issues affecting them; the events will also allow the women to enhance support systems towards the professional development of women in law enforcement.

The year will culminate with a glitzy, red-carpet affair, a Women in Policing Awards Gala is scheduled for Thursday, September 12.

There will be a presentation of awards to several members, but the special element of the function will be a fundraiser towards under-resourced girls at a select charity.

“Whether it’s our sworn or unsworn members, everyone has been a part of the journey and we plan to celebrate all year long. Seventy-five years is a long time. We have transformed greatly and our women are significant contributors to that,” said SSP Lindsay.