Previous LAFD Video Raises Debate
Kristine Larson, an Assistant Chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), has drawn attention not only for her high-ranking position and $399,000 annual salary but also for her outspoken role in addressing gender dynamics and cultural issues within the department.
A prominent advocate for equity, Larson has made waves with her bold statements, particularly one in a video that encapsulated her no-nonsense approach to criticism about female firefighters’ physical capabilities. Responding to the hypothetical question about carrying a man out of a fire, Larson quipped, “He got himself in the wrong place if I have to carry him out of a fire.”
LAFD Assistant Chief Kristine Larson:
“Am I able to carry your husband out of a fire? He got himself in the wrong place.” pic.twitter.com/BofTVr6dWP
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) January 9, 2025
Larson’s comments highlight a deeper issue: the intersection of gender expectations and professional standards. Her remark, though lighthearted, underscores the broader mission of fostering inclusivity without compromising accountability.
The LAFD, historically dominated by men, has been under scrutiny for what Larson and others describe as an entrenched culture of discrimination. Larson’s role as a founding member of the Equity on Fire coalition and her leadership in Los Angeles Women in the Fire Service reflect her commitment to challenging this status quo.
Her advocacy extends beyond the station walls. Larson actively participates in “girls’ fire camps” along the West Coast, designed to inspire and empower high school-aged young women. These camps focus on leadership and team-building, aiming to open doors for future generations of female firefighters.
Larson has emphasized the importance of representation, stating that seeing responders who “look like you” can ease anxieties in critical moments, fostering trust between first responders and the communities they serve.
However, her tenure has not been without controversy. In October 2021, Larson and other female firefighters, supported by external organizations, accused the LAFD of fostering an environment rife with sexism, racism, and abuse. They issued a public letter to then-Mayor Eric Garcetti, calling for the removal of Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas.
The allegations painted a stark picture of a department where victims of discrimination often remained silent due to fear of retaliation. Larson herself has criticized the “deep-seated tradition” of not reporting abuses, calling for systemic change to support those who come forward.