Safety Forces
Historically, minorities and women have only moved forward through the ranks of safety forces through litigation. Sometimes, not even then. Most municipalities utilize cognitive testing in the promotional process. Yet, statistics have proved there are wide cultural and race group differentials on such tests – particularly where cognitive test scores are inordinately relied upon to the detriment of true assessment centers, considerations of merit on the job, etc.
If used alone or given excessive weight in promotions, such tests are inherently suspect and often result in promotion of personnel who are not the best qualified for the job.
Thompson & Bishop has a proven track record in safety-force representation, including large groups, disparate impact in promotional testing, employer hostile environment harassment, employer retaliation, and much more.
As part of our service, we provide a periodical guest column on issues affecting you, including Fireside Chat (featuring prominent or involved fire personnel on employment issues) and Fuzz Buzz (featuring prominent or involved police personnel on employment issues). Please note that the views are invited and may not reflect the personal beliefs of the attorneys. The goal is to get a broad perspective – but one that assists you as an expert in safety, used to daily placing your life into your hands to help others. Each of our guest column pages is updated, and you also can peruse the archives to view past columns.
To submit or suggest a column: Each column must deal with an important aspect of testing or litigation. Any column submissions should be limited to 750 words and your personal information, including all contact information. Submit photo, if possible, as well as all information on your department profile for publication (e.g., ranks listings in the department, percentage of African-Americans, Hispanic, Female, etc., as well as any city/urban demographic information for comparison. You may request this information not be included in a “department profile.”
|
