L.A. Fires Rage as Fire Department’s DEI Chief Faces Backlash Over Controversial Comment

As Los Angeles grapples with its worst wildfire crisis in history, a comment by the city fire department’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) chief has ignited a storm of criticism. Deputy Chief Kristine Larson, who leads the Equity and Human Resources Bureau, is facing backlash after a video surfaced in which she appeared to dismiss concerns about the physical abilities of female firefighters.

The controversy stems from Larson’s response to critics questioning whether female firefighters are strong enough to carry a man out of a burning building. In the video, Larson responded, “He got himself in the wrong place if I have to carry him out of a fire.” The remark quickly went viral on social media, drawing ire from both citizens and professionals, as wildfires tore through the Pacific Palisades, one of the city’s wealthiest and oldest neighborhoods.

The timing of the comment has only added to the public outrage, as the fire department has faced accusations of being ill-prepared to handle the rapid spread of the wildfires. Many residents have criticized the department’s perceived focus on DEI hiring over operational readiness, questioning whether merit and competence have been compromised in favor of fulfilling diversity quotas.

The Pacific Palisades fire is part of a larger outbreak of wildfires wreaking havoc across Los Angeles, displacing thousands and destroying properties. Critics argue that Larson’s comments not only undermine the public’s trust in the department but also overshadow the heroic efforts of firefighters on the ground battling the infernos.

Neither Larson nor the Los Angeles Fire Department has issued an official statement addressing the controversy. As public pressure mounts, many are calling for greater transparency and a reassessment of the department’s hiring and training practices, especially during a crisis of this magnitude.

For now, Los Angeles remains in the grip of a dual firestorm—one literal and one figurative—as both its neighborhoods and its fire department face an uphill battle to regain control.