‘PowHer Up’ - JCF begins year-long celebration of women’s integration into police force

The grounds of the Police Officers' Club in St Andrew were painted white last Friday as the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) commenced its year-long celebration of women's integration into the force with an empowering 'PowHer Up' marketplace and cocktail event.

More than 200 sworn and unsworn women from various divisions and formations adorned themselves in elegant white attire, embodying the theme 'Inspired Women, Inspiring Women'.

The evening kicked off with a nostalgic journey through the decades, featuring a decorated pathway highlighting pivotal moments in women's history within the JCF. Each attendee was then greeted with a personalised glass, symbolising care and honour throughout the event.

In his address, Commissioner of Police Major General Antony Anderson stated that the contribution of women in the force is a great boost to the organisation and they should be immensely proud.

"The force is about its people, and when you are talking about people you can't talk about our people without talking about our Jamaican women. Our women have been a force to be reckoned with and they have built this country, to a great extent," Commissioner Anderson said.

Women were first admitted into the JCF on January 1, 1949.

Lorna Wilson-Morgan, a retired superintendent of police with 26 years of service in the JCF, described the event as a commendable tribute to the women who paved the way for her to be here.

"Dozens of women were there for me when I came to this organisation in 1982, and they guided me along the pathway. As a result, they strengthened me to do the same for other women, to ensure they have someone they could talk to," Wilson-Morgan said.

State Minister in the Ministry of National Security Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn hailed the remarkable women of the JCF.

"You are all incredible women serving in this wonderful police force, empowering and protecting communities. Together we can create a future where every woman and every girl can thrive and flourish in this beautiful land we love," she said.