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National Police Woman Day

Show your support for the brave women of law enforcement on National Police Woman Day - thank them for their selfless service and dedication!

Saturday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATESeptember 12

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYFirst Responders

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Police Woman Day on September 12 by honoring the brave women who have made it their mission to serve and protect! This day was established in 1973 to recognize the first female police officer ever hired in America. Since then, women have been making tremendous strides in law enforcement as they continue to fight for justice and keep our communities safe.

TIMELINE

National Police Woman Day Timeline

First Female Police Officer

Alice Stebbins Wells was hired by the Los Angeles Police Department, becoming the first woman to hold the position of police officer in the United States.

First Policewomen's Bureau

The first Policewomen's Bureau was established in Los Angeles, increasing female representation in law enforcement.

First Female Lieutenant

Josephine Serrano Collier became the first Latina woman to join the LAPD and later she became the first female police lieutenant in California.

Equal Employment Act

The Equal Employment Act brought momentum for women in police forces, as it provided legal protection against gender discrimination in hiring and promotions.

National Police Woman Day Established

National Police Woman Day was officially recognized, paying tribute to the female officers who dedicated their lives to public service.

First Female Police Chief

Beverly Harvard became the first black woman to lead a major city police department when she was appointed chief of the Atlanta police department.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Police Woman Day

Organize a thank you event

Gather friends and family to thank the brave police women in your community. Perhaps plan a potluck, or arrange for food to be donated. Let everyone express their gratitude and appreciation.

SEND

Send cards or letters

Writing cards or letters to local police women is a great way to show your thanks and appreciation. You can even write to officers from other cities, states or countries if you know any personally.

DONATE

Donate to a charity

There are many charities that support police women and their families. Donate money, time, or supplies to one of these organizations in honor of National Police Woman Day.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer your time

Call your local police station and ask if they need volunteers on National Police Woman Day. This is an excellent way to show your support and do something meaningful for the community.

Share inspiring stories

Find inspiring stories about police women's bravery and share them on social media for all your followers to see. You can also use the hashtag #NationalPoliceWomanDay so others can join in on the celebration.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Police Woman Day is Important

It spreads awareness

Finally, National Police Woman Day can help to spread awareness about issues related to law enforcement and gender inequality. It's a great opportunity for people to reflect on the challenges faced by female police officers, as well as the reforms that are needed in order to ensure the safety of all members of law enforcement - male or female.

It recognizes & honors female officers

National Police Woman Day is an important occasion to recognize and honor female police officers who have worked hard to protect citizens and keep their communities safe. These brave women play an invaluable role in law enforcement, and deserve our gratitude for their service.

It promotes gender equity

By celebrating National Police Woman Day, we are sending a message that men and women should be treated equally in all professions, including law enforcement. This event helps to promote gender equity in an area where there has historically been a wide disparity between the genders.

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