Readers React: The gender divide in the LAFD -- and other workplaces

To the editor: As any politician worth his salt, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti is riding the mare of gender diversity at a furious gallop. Certainly, if women can meet the strict physical standards mandated by the firefighting profession, I see no reason they shouldn’t have their fair opportunities. (“If we want more female firefighters, LAFD needs to end its inherent inhospitality to women,” editorial, Nov. 25)

But let’s not forget, in this fevered focus on female firefighters, the many other industries gravely under represented by women. Few can be found deep in the coal mines or among the lumberjacks. Where are the female bull riders, mechanics, roofers, concrete finishers or power line installers? Why don’t I see them on the oil rigs or among the tool and die makers?

And how often do you see a man tending to your dental hygiene? (Oops, wrong gender diversity problem.)

Well, no matter, these are great deficiencies whose viability can’t be allowed within the confines of this grand, exemplary society.

Michael E. White, Burbank

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To the editor: The only sensible part of your editorial notes that “90% of the calls that come in are for emergency medical service.”

Perhaps it is about time to create a new emergency component of local government: that of a paramedic service housed within (or in close proximity to) local hospitals. At least then Fire Department personnel can be trained and retained for fighting fires.

Jim Weyant, Big Bear City, Calif.

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