SPOKANE, Wash. – As March comes to a close, there is still time to celebrate Women’s History Month and reflect on the vital contributions women have made to our culture and society. This year’s theme, “Moving Forward Together, Women Educating and Inspiring Generations,” highlights the ongoing impact women have in shaping the future.
One such woman making a difference is Tracy Meidl, a Captain with the Spokane Police Department. Meidl, who began volunteering for the department at just seventeen years old, has spent years rising through the ranks. Today, she’s not only a respected leader but also an inspiration to the next generation of female police officers.
Women represent half of the U.S. population, yet according to the National Policing Institute, they make up only about twelve percent of police officers. Research suggests that women in law enforcement tend to receive fewer complaints and are less likely to use excessive force. Meidl attributes this to the unique qualities women bring to the job, such as compassion and strong communication skills—traits that are crucial when working with crime victims.
“Being able to touch and help people heal and change the trajectory of what that traumatic event does for them is probably the most impactful thing that I can do as a police officer,” said Meidl.
Currently, twenty-five women are commissioned with the Spokane Police Department, with two more in training. Women interested in joining the force are encouraged to call SPD, participate in a ride-along, and meet potential future colleagues.
Meidl is proud of the role she plays as a mentor and role model for young girls in the community, including her own daughter. She notes that one of the most rewarding aspects of her career is the opportunity to show young girls that they too can achieve great things, regardless of the challenges they may face.
While there are challenges, such as the assumption that women may not have the same physical capabilities as their male counterparts, Meidl stresses that women’s strengths go beyond the physical realm. Emotional intelligence and verbal skills often help defuse tense situations, preventing the need for force in the first place.
“There are challenges for women I think in almost every career and any challenge can be overcome with perseverance. I had the opportunity to work with women who came before me.”
Meidl credits much of her success to those women, and she hopes to pay it forward by inspiring more women to enter the field of law enforcement. Though she acknowledges that getting women interested in policing can be challenging, she emphasizes that the Spokane Police Department offers a welcoming and supportive environment.
As Women’s History Month draws to a close, Meidl’s dedication to her work and her community exemplifies the values of this year’s theme: inspiring and empowering the next generation.
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