Celebrating 50 years of women’s involvement in CHP

OPINION – This year marks the 50th anniversary of women’s significant contribution and involvement in the California Highway Patrol. In 1974, a group of community service-driven women entered the CHP Academy’s Women Traffic Officer Program. By entering and committing to this program, this group of women dismantled the outdated perception that law enforcement was simply a “man’s job.” Their success has forever altered the CHP and law enforcement across the nation.

Before his cohort, opportunities in the CHP for females were limited to non-officer roles. However, the courage and dedication of the 27 women who completed their training demonstrated that gender should never be a barrier to serving one’s community. Their innovative service paved the way for future generations, leading to today’s CHP where women serve in all roles, from motorcycle patrol to detective work and even at the highest leadership level. In 2020, Amanda L. Ray made history as the first woman to be appointed Commissioner of the CHP, overseeing an organization of more than 11,000 members.

The following acts of heroism are examples of women who achieved Medals of Valor risking their lives for Californians in need:

• In 2007, CHP officers, including Roberta Record, responded to nitrous oxide gas explosions at an aerospace development company. The officers evacuated and rescued three employees and remained on site to ensure the safety of the situation.
• CHP Officer Monica Alvarado responded to a call from a person threatening to commit suicide in 1991. Officer Alvarado arrived at the scene and grabbed hold of him as he attempted to jump. She held him for over two minutes until assistance arrived to help pull the victim back up.

The achievements of the women of CHP are a standing testament to the significance of diversity and equity in law enforcement. Their contributions have strengthened and protected our communities, thereby demonstrating that inclusion is not just a buzzword but a pertinent aspect of everyone’s role in society. The legacy of these early trailblazers continues to inspire and motivate our future generation of women, reminding us that a more diverse force leads to more remarkable vital transformations and resilience within our institutions.

Recently, several members of the inaugural Women Traffic Officer Project class reconnected in Sacramento to reminisce and celebrate their legacy. The main theme that reverberated throughout the group of women was their passion and pride in serving and protecting Californians.

As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we must focus on protecting our progress and advancing its growth beyond CHP. Overcoming sexism and discrimination in the workplace is a critical victory for everyone, regardless of their gender. CHP has exemplified this goal by uplifting women in their field and supporting their endeavors. Kimberly Berg, the first woman in the program to earn a CHP badge number, said in encouragement to future generations of CHP officers, “Believe in yourself, even if you weren’t raised that way and have confidence. You’re capable of more than you could ever imagine.”

Breaking down systemic barriers helps to lead and inspire future generations of women, and it is a responsibility we all share.

Senator Thomas J. Umberg (D-Santa Ana) is Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee and Mufida Assaf is a legislative aide.