A New Sherriff in Town: The Barriers of Structural Discrimination Facing Women Leaders

Abstract

In the current world of organizations, it is no surprise that discrimination exists against women. Many organizations, however, exhibit structural discrimination and little is done to combat this. This is no more evident than within law enforcement organizations. This research focuses on the disparate treatment, as defined by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, as the barrier keeping women becoming Sheriff. Current data show women make up less than one-half of one percent of all sheriffs nationwide. This research suggests women hold leadership competencies that the field of law enforcement is seeking. By more women becoming the top executive of these agencies, the discriminatory landscape within law enforcement agencies will begin to change.