CLEVELAND — When Lauren Phillips became a Cleveland firefighter this year, she made history as the first woman to join the department in 30 years.
She would be one of just four female firefighters in a department of more than 700 men.
“If I can inspire, motivate women, young girls, that is a total bonus to the job,” Phillips said at the time.
But for many, the job may be simply out of reach.
According to a new report released by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, black, Hispanic, and female applicants have faced discrimination from the department.
Looking at data between 2010 and 2014, the EEOC found those candidates lost out on job opportunities and promotions to their counterparts.
The report also found that points added for residency and military service worked against minorities.
Women’s bathrooms were missing in some firehouses.
“Not having showers and locker room facilities for women. How can you expect a woman to want to go into that field, and not only want to go in, but succeed, in a field where they don’t even have showers?” asked Jared Klebanow, an attorney who represents minority firefighters.
On Monday the City of Cleveland denied the allegations and released the following statement:
“The City disagrees with the findings contained in the determination letter received from the EEOC that the City has discriminated against Black, Hispanic, and female firefighters and individuals applying for employment with the City’s Division of Fire. The City is presently reviewing these matters and anticipates having further dialogue with the EEOC in the near future.”
If the sides are unable to resolve the matter, it could end up in court.