John Drake
Police Chief, Metropolitan Nashville Police Department
Nashville, Tennessee
Transcript
I’m Chief John Drake of the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. It was my privilege in March 2021, during Covid, to be among the first of our nation’s major city chiefs to sign on to the 30×30 Initiative, to advance women in policing. In 2024 and beyond, my commitment is unwavering to the goal of having 30% female representation in our officer ranks by 2030.
As chief, it is very important to me that we strive to reflect our community, our gender, ethnicity, and race. This is while establishing a culture that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive of our female officers. That includes the creation of lactation rooms at headquarters, precinct facilities across the county, and our Training Academy. We are also mindful of childcare issues and work to help officers be successful alongside family needs. As a natural native and veteran of this police department for more than 3 decades, I have seen a great deal of evolution for the better in this profession. The 30×30 Initiative is just one example. If you’re considering a career in law enforcement, please consider us.
How we’re changing policing
The 30×30 Initiative is a coalition of police leaders, researchers, and professional organizations committed to advancing and supporting the representation, experiences, and well-being of women at all levels of law enforcement, both in the U.S. and beyond.
Research shows that women play a crucial role in building community trust, de-escalating conflict, and improving public safety outcomes, with evidence linked to reduced use of force and enhanced relationships with the communities they serve. However, women represent less than 14% of sworn officers and 20% of recruits in state and local law enforcement agencies. Additionally, about 40% of the approximately 18,000 law enforcement agencies in the U.S. have no full-time women officers (Source: Bureau of Justice Statistics).
We are collaborating with hundreds of agencies to make law enforcement a profession where qualified women who are drawn to it feel welcomed and supported while ensuring agencies address their unique needs and foster their success.