Battalion Chief Lisa Forrest with Words of Inspiration
By: Nasir Jones
November, 10, 2020
Lisa Forrest: Battalion Chief
To some, September 29, of 2020 was just another day in the week. But in reality, it was history in the making as Lisa Forrest became the first African American woman to become Battalion Chief of the Philadelphia Fire Department. Through her hard work, dedication, and perseverance, she has done something in Philadelphia that no one has been able to do. And it’s not surprising to her or her family. She has been known for her strength for as long as they can remember.
“Men rely on strength, Chief Forrest said. “But women, we rely on technique. I come from a long line of strong women, so it’s in my blood.”
She knows the importance behind working for what you want, and how you mustn't stop. She encourages other Black women and kids to do the same, to follow in her footsteps and accomplish something great. She explains how she hopes that other young black girls have a mindset just like hers. One that never gives up.
“Don't ever let anyone define you, Chief Forrest advised. “You know, whatever your dreams are, whatever you aspire to be, go after. And don't ever let anybody tell you what you can't do, especially because of what you look like.”
She says that Battalion Chief definitely isn’t her last stop.
“I'm never satisfied. You know, I think once I'm satisfied that means there is no longer time for me to live so I'm always striving to be better than I am. So of course I can't stop whatever God has for me I accept His will and his plan for my life. But I don't expect to be a battalion chief, the rest of my career.”
With her great experience and knowledge, she very well understands Philadelphia's predicament regarding Covid as well. She has achieved something through a pandemic and according to her and many others, it’s safe over all. While Chief Forrest acknowledges the difficulties of virtual learning for students in Philadelphia, she also is concerned most about the health of those students.
“I understand the social aspect of it,” Chief Forrest explained. “And a lot of students are hands on, you know, learning and the virtual experience may not give that hands on one that they need. But, safety is first and foremost whatever it takes to keep the students safe. I think that's the direction that we should be looking into. No, no other reason.”
Battalion Chief Forrest is an African American woman with a strong sense for what’s right and most importantly how to continue the fight for what she wants.
“Whatever role I was in. I will always try to act like I was in a room above it, so to speak, you know. So, already know how I'm preparing for the next level.” she stated.