10/16/2026
FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT
PHOENIX OF THE DETROIT FIRE DEPARTMENT
WHEN TRIAL FIREFIGHTER TRADITION CROSSES THE LINE
Recently, it was brought to my attention that a trial firefighter, whom The Phoenix recruited and helped prepare to meet the prerequisites for the job, shared a deeply troubling account of a recent incident as a trial firefighter.
I am angry. And I have every right to be.
They recently reported to me that they were subjected to humiliating criticism over minor housekeeping matters, disparaging remarks about their abilities, yelling, intimidation, and unreasonable demands from their senior firefighter during a recent 24-hour tour of duty. They also described an aggressive outburst involving property being thrown across the firehouse in a rage and an incident of what can be considered physical assult.
What is particularly disturbing is this behavior was not demonstrated in the presence of their immediate commanding officer, but surfaced when that officer was absent.
Other crew members reportedly over heard the verbal tantrum and advised them to avoid the senior firefighter.
When did avoiding someone's temper tantrums in the workplace become an acceptable substitute for addressing their inappropriate conduct?
I served the Detroit Fire Department for 27 years. I understand the traditions of a firehouse. I understand what it means to be a trial firefighter: to learn your responsibilities, respect seniority, accept constructive criticism, demonstrate initiative, and earn the confidence of your company.
I am not thin-skinned. I was never bothered by profanity, raised voices, or stern correction. Every boss has a different management style and a different way of doing things.
But let me make something perfectly clear.
THERE IS A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TEACHING A TRIAL FIREFIGHTER DISCIPLINE, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND FIREHOUSE RESPONSIBILITY AND SUBJECTING THAT TRIAL FIREFIGHTER TO INTIMIDATION, HUMILIATION, UNREASONABLE DEMANDS, AND PHYSICAL ABUSE.
Seniority does not grant anyone the authority to mistreat another person.
Tradition does not excuse abuse.
And training should never be confused with degradation.
I will not presume to know at this stage whether race, gender, or a combination of other factors contributed to the conduct that was reported. But neither will I dismiss those possibilities.
What I do know is this: intimidation, humiliation, and physical assult have NO legitimate place in the training or development of a firefighter.
And regardless of race or gender, the behavior described is totally unacceptable.
A trial firefighter is already navigating one of the most demanding periods of a firefighting career. Every decision is scrutinized. Every mistake becomes a lesson. Every shift represents another opportunity to demonstrate readiness for the badge.
That period should produce capable, confident, well-rounded, disciplined firefighters, not individuals who dread reporting to work because they fear the temperament of someone assigned to guide them.
WE CANNOT RECRUIT MEN AND WOMEN INTO THIS PROFESSION, HELP THEM OVERCOME THE OBSTACLES TO GETTING HIRED, AND THEN TURN OUR BACKS WHEN THEY ENCOUNTER OBSTACLES INSIDE THE VERY FIREHOUSES THEY WORKED SO HARD TO ENTER.
This is not who The Phoenix is. This is not why we exist.
I have tremendous respect for the immediate commanding officer, and I intend to allow that officer the opportunity to address these concerns appropriately.
But understand this: My respect for the chain of command does not diminish my responsibility to advocate for those who may be subjected to mistreatment.
I expect this matter to be taken seriously, examined fairly, and addressed appropriately, with no retaliation against the trial firefighter for coming forward.
I have intentionally withheld names, company assignments, and identifying information because my purpose is not to publicly condemn someone before the facts are fully examined.
But my purpose is to make it UNMISTAKABLY CLEAR THAT THIS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED OR BRUSHED UNDER THE RUG.
And make no mistake, I am always watching.
If these concerns are dismissed, minimized, or improperly handled, The Phoenix will not hesitate to pursue further action, including bringing this matter before the public.
We have never been an organization that exists simply to socialize and celebrate. The Phoenix was born out of the necessity to confront injustice, challenge discriminatory practices, and demand equitable treatment.
That responsibility did not end in 1967.
It continues today.
To every officer, senior firefighter, and individual entrusted with the development of a trial firefighter, remember this:
Your years of service should make you a better mentor, not give you a license to intimidate.
A firehouse is supposed to be a place where firefighters build trust, develop skills, and learn to depend on one another when lives are at stake.
If a firefighter cannot feel comfortable or safe among the people in the firehouse, what does that say about the trust we expect them to demonstrate on the fireground or with the people they serve?
We will continue recruiting. We will continue mentoring. We will continue advocating.
And when necessary, The Phoenix will do what The Phoenix has always done. We will stand up, speak out, and confront what others would prefer to ignore.
ALL THAT WE ARE, WE OWE.
STILL WE RISE.
Teresa Singleton, MPA
President
Phoenix of the Detroit Fire Department
