As a response to initial findings in the department’s investigation, Hayes-White said she ordered the transfer of the leadership at SFFD Station 2, located on Powell Street. She added that she has never seen that happen during the 26 years she’s been with the department.
The SFFD is still investigating the complaint and could eventually suspend or fire those involved.
Hayes-White said she, too, has experienced gender discrimination in the department.
“Coming on up, there were some incidents that I weathered through,” she said. “In any workplace there can be challenges. You multiply that by 10, I’d say, in our department because it’s a paramilitary organization. But it’s also an organization where it is not an eight-hour shift. We’re working together. We’re living together.”
Officials have touted the department’s diversity in response to these allegations. At 16 percent female, SFFD is above the national average of 4 percent.
“We take great pride in having a diverse department, and women, of course, are a part of that,” said Fire Commission president Francee Covington. “Women hold up half the sky. In any professional environment, people expect to have respect and to give respect."
While Hayes-White said she was also proud of the department’s gender diversity, she wants to bring in even more women. She did not, however, disclose a specific plan to do so.
The firefighters union could not be reached for comment.
