Petition to Remove Deputy Chief Kristine Larson from the Los Angeles Fire Department

To: The Mayor of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Fire Department Leadership, and the Los Angeles City Council

We, the undersigned, call for the immediate dismissal of Deputy Chief Kristine Larson from her position within the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). Our request stems from her recent controversial statements and the subsequent erosion of public trust in her leadership.

Deputy Chief Larson’s comments regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies—particularly those suggesting a lack of physical capability among certain firefighters—have raised significant concerns about her judgment and priorities. Her remarks, perceived by many as victim-blaming, undermine the core values of fairness, merit, and public safety that the LAFD is sworn to uphold.

We believe that leadership within the LAFD should reflect the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and public service. Deputy Chief Larson’s public statements have demonstrated a troubling disregard for these principles and have damaged the reputation of the department at a time when trust and unity are essential.

This petition is not an attack on diversity or inclusion, but rather a demand for leadership that fosters public confidence, maintains operational effectiveness, and ensures the safety of all residents and firefighters alike.

We urge the appropriate authorities to take swift action in addressing this matter and restoring the integrity of the LAFD by removing Deputy Chief Kristine Larson from her position.

Deputy Chief Kristine Larson of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has recently faced significant criticism following the resurfacing of a video in which she discusses the department’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. In the video, Larson addresses concerns about the physical capabilities of female firefighters, stating, “He got himself in the wrong place if I have to carry him out of a fire.” This remark has been interpreted by some as victim-blaming, leading to public outcry.

LAFD’s emphasis on DEI have compromised its effectiveness, especially in light of the recent wildfires devastating the Los Angeles area. Conservative commentators and social media users have accused the department of prioritizing diversity over merit, suggesting that such policies have hindered the city’s preparedness and response to emergencies. Notably, a misleading, doctored image of female fire leaders has further fueled the controversy.