The Facts
The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has agreed to pay over $22M to settle claims by 34 female recruits who say they were discriminated against and harassed during their time at the FBI academy in Quantico, Va.
According to the lawsuit, which was first filed in 2019, the famale recruits, in contrast to their male peers, were "excessively targeted for correction and dismissal in tactical situations for perceived lack of judgment."
The Spin
This settlement is unfortunately not surprising, especially given that the Justice Department came to the same conclusion in a separate report two years ago. Hopefully, however, not only will these women be fairly compensated and offered a fair shot at reattending the academy, but no woman will ever endure such egregious violations in the future.
While no one in their right mind would condone what was reported in this lawsuit, stories like this should not prompt more calls for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The FBI has already lowered its standards regarding physical fitness, illicit drug use, mental health, and work experience. Everyone should be given a fair shot, but only the best of the best should become agents.
