Separate but Equal: The Introduction and Integration of Policewomen in the Bermuda Police 1961–2002

Abstract

This study examines the introduction, recruitment, and advancement of female sworn officers into the Bermuda Police Service from 1961 until 2002. Female sworn officers were initially appointed in 1961 but were limited to social work functions and later general patrol. Promotions were limited up to the rank of Inspector within a separate Police Women's Department. After 1977, the recruitment of female Bermudian officers increased in response to difficulties in recruitment and retention of Bermudian male officers. Female officers were mainstreamed and gained appointments in operational and support specialist departments. During the 1990s, the introduction of human rights legislation guaranteed female officers equal career opportunities and promotion to management ranks, and female officers were appointed to operational supervisory positions and also broke through the promotions ‘glass ceiling’ and attained command rank of Superintendent. Between 1999 and 2002 a rapid recruitment of female officers resulted in an influx of female junior officers into operational patrol as an integral part of the police service's operational response.