MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The NAACP held its monthly meeting in Miami Gardens on Monday night.

The discussion focused on how Miami-Dade Fire Rescue can improve hiring practices on the heels of a concerning photo of Recruit Class 159.

Of the 73 recruits in that class, there were only three African Americans.

The NAACP invited leadership of Miami-Dade Fire Rescue to explain what led up to what was seen in the photo and ways to ensure that down the road, the department is a better reflection of the community.

MDFR leaders said it boils down to a number of reasons that lead to the class only having three people of color graduating, with representatives saying factors like testing — meaning education, psychological, and physical – all contribute to candidates either moving forward or being disqualified, in addition to background checks into criminal and driving records, as well as previous employment history.

Many in attendance questioned if there are systemic issues within the hiring practice, suggesting that MDFR needs to look into additional outreach programming.

Previously, the department said the recruitment class in question came from an expiring eligibility list, which limited who they could hire.

MDFR released a statement to Local 10 News which read:

“Miami-Dade Fire Rescue appreciates the opportunity to meet with the NAACP and members of the community for an open and constructive conversation regarding recruitment and workforce representation. While MDFR currently has a workforce that is reflective of the community we serve, we value dialogue that improves collaboration, engagement, and continued partnership. MDFR remains committed to working alongside community leaders and residents to strengthen outreach, expand opportunities, and continue building trust throughout our community.”

*Editor’s note: A previous version of this article stated that MDFR had one African American in their recruit class, however MDFR confirmed they had three African Americans in their latest recruitment class.

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