Fire halls aren't the poster child for diversity. But three Puget Sound departments are trying to change that, and welcome a new generation into the fire service.
That's the inspiration behind the new video from the Everett, Shoreline, and Lacey Fire Departments released as part of the It Gets Better Project. Launched in 2010 by Seattle columnist Dan Savage, the campaign aims to reach out to gay and lesbian youth who may face harassment for their sexual orientations and has had participation from the likes of President Barack Obama and Kathy Griffin. Many teens can't see past the immediate, sometimes bleak, future of middle school and high school where they may fear for their safety and feel like they will never be accepted. That leads to depression for many, and desperation for others.
In this video, the firefighters tell their own stories of struggle growing up and how they've come into their own as adults.
Chrystal Murphy with Lacey Fire District Number Three grew up in southern California in a religious family, part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
"I remember being in school, asking girls out, feeling natural, feeling like everything was the way it was supposed to be and going to church and being told I was wrong," she said.
Everett Fire Captain Matthew Sorensen only came out last June. He was terrified growing up that he would be rejected.
"I think the fire service has remained one of the last places where it's difficult for LGBT people to come out because just traditionally, the fire service has attracted a lot of macho men," said Sorensen. "And there's this idea that to be anything than heterosexual somehow diminishes your masculinity."
That's why he was floored when his brothers in the hall embraced him for who he was. He says he got a flood of calls and emails supporting him.
Everett Fire Chief Murray Gordon has seen a cultural shift in the world around him, and on the job, in his 38 years with the Department. He says that's a good thing, and they're ready to welcome recruits of all stripes.
"When I began, the department was primarily white and its primary interest was to create a department that all looked alike, to create a department where we all thought the same way. I believe now the department is very interested in diversity, and the benefits of diversity. I believe the department is interested in each individual's experiences. And it's those experiences that make us a stronger department," said Gordon. "I'm here to tell you that it definitely gets better.
As much progress has been made, Shoreline Firefighter Jodi Denney said there's more to be done.
"We need you. We really need you," she said. "There is a lack of visibility and voices - coming out in America and coming out in the American Fire Service are not the same thing, and I get that. But if there's one message, I just want them to hear me say: we're here, and we need more of you, and when you're ready we will welcome you with open arms."
See the video for yourself right here. Warning - you may shed a tear (I did):
