Friday is National Police Woman Day, a day to recognize the growing impact women are making in the traditionally male-dominated field of law enforcement.
Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt says it's important to set an example for the younger generation to keep the momentum going.
"You know, I have a saying that if you can't see her, you can't be her," says Sheriff Witt. "And so making sure that we are showing up as women in this profession in different aspects, whether you're on patrol, investigations, community engagement, water patrol."
Witt says women bring a strong sense of empathy to a profession that often sees people at their worst.
She says the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office has 340 female employees - about 35% of their total workforce - of which 18% are sworn officers.
National Police Woman Day is observed annually on September 12th to recognize and honor the contributions of women in law enforcement across the United States.
The day celebrates their courage, dedication, and unique perspectives in serving and protecting communities, while also encouraging more women to join the police force to achieve greater representation in the field.
