Tracy Lewis, a Brooklyn native of Guyanese descent, made historical past when she was promoted to the rank of lieutenant, changing into solely the second Black feminine firefighter to realize such a place. Her promotion marked a big triumph not just for herself however for the range and inclusion of ladies inside the New York Metropolis Hearth Division (FDNY).
Her unwavering work ethic and willpower in a area traditionally dominated by males propelled her past her aspirations and the expectations of her household when she ascended to the rank of Lieutenant.
In a current interview with Caribbean Life, Lieutenant Lewis candidly shared her journey, highlighting the challenges she confronted and the obstacles she overcame to succeed in her present place as Govt Officer to the Hearth Commissioner. Regardless of the hurdles encountered alongside the way in which, Lieutenant Lewis stays a fervent advocate for pursuing one’s goals, notably for ladies aspiring to enter historically male-dominated fields.
“It makes me really feel completely happy, however there may be the half the place I didn’t get so far as I needed as a result of I took different promotional exams and wasn’t as profitable. I’m grateful for this chance, which comes with a stage of duty. I additionally assume again and really feel as if I didn’t have sufficient steering as I wanted, however I’m nonetheless grateful for the steering that I did have.”
Earlier than her groundbreaking promotion, Lieutenant Lewis served as a devoted firefighter at Engine 222 in Brooklyn, the place she demonstrated unwavering braveness and dedication to serving her neighborhood. Her journey within the FDNY started as a Hearth Cadet and later as an Emergency Medical Technician, showcasing her versatility and dedication to public service.
All through her exceptional profession, which spans almost 24 years, Lieutenant Lewis has solid a trajectory marked by excellence, triumphing over challenges and breaking by boundaries with unwavering willpower.
Reflecting on her journey, Tracy Lewis articulates her need to depart behind a legacy of resilience, perseverance, and empowerment. She acknowledged the struggles of ladies and black individuals and the way they have been handled.
“I wish to go away issues higher than I discovered them, a precept instilled in me by my dad and mom from a younger age. That is my mission for the fireplace division as a result of after I joined, ladies confronted many boundaries to success. The panorama has since modified, and I goal to proceed fostering an atmosphere the place all can thrive…I had alot of disagreeable encounters on this division and it was just because I’m a lady…Fortunately this division has come a great distance, they nonetheless should make extra work to do but it surely’s good to see the progress that has been made.”
Lieutenant Lewis was born in Brooklyn however spent the primary seven years of her life in Guyana, residing on a farm in Kilterean on the Corentyne in Berbice together with her grandparents, earlier than returning to the USA.
Past her exemplary service on the frontlines, Lieutenant Lewis is actively concerned in varied initiatives geared toward recruitment, retention, and youth empowerment inside the FDNY. As a longtime member of esteemed organizations such because the FDNY Vulcan Society, FDNY United Girls Firefighters (UWF), and the Worldwide Affiliation of Black Skilled Firefighters (IABPFF), she stays steadfast in her advocacy for range and illustration inside the fireplace service.
As she continues to blaze trails and encourage future generations, Lieutenant Lewis stands as a shining instance of braveness, tenacity, and perseverance within the pursuit of 1’s passions and aspirations. Her legacy inside the FDNY and the broader neighborhood serves as a supply of inspiration for all who dare to dream and try for greatness.
