Laura Kavanagh made history Thursday when she became the first woman sworn in as FDNY commissioner in the department's 157-year history. JohnBDias reports.
said Kavanagh rose to the occasion over the last eight months as she dealt with line-of-duty deaths and other tribulations. It's a turning point in the predominantly male industry. According to the city's data, more than 75 percent of firefighters are white men and less than one percent are women, currently.
"Men of this city, you should be proud. You're sending a message to every agency and administration across the globe," said Adams."When you say as men in this agency, that you will follow the leadership no matter what the gender may be," said Adams. Kavanagh said she plans to continue taking interest in diversifying the country's largest municipal fire department by hiring more women.
"Change provides opportunity. Change in fact is the only constant in life and if we embrace it change is a gift," said Kavanagh.