Tamica Barnett makes history as first Black female Lieutenant for Syracuse Fire Department

By Alyssa Wilson Published: May 10, 2021

Tamica Barnett makes history as first Black female Lieutenant for Syracuse Fire Department

Lt. Tamica Barnett is the first Black Lieutenant for the Syracuse Fire Department. (Photo: FireFighters of Color United in Syracuse/ Facebook)

By: Alyssa Wilson

Lieutenant Tamica Barnett has made history as the first Black woman to join the ranks of Lieutenant at the Syracuse Fire Department.

Today is International Firefighter’s Day! On this important day, we are pleased to announce the following promotions, which became effective at 0800:

Lt. Tamica Barnett, Lt. Christopher Birmingham, Lt Jeremy Burton, Lt. Jeffrey Cole, Lt. Eamon Coogan, and Lt. Donald Lough, Jr.

— Syracuse Fire Dept (@syracuseFD) May 4, 2021

The 36-year-old is excited about her new role, but understands the responsibility that comes with it, Syracuse.com reported. “I think with being the first anything …… I know there’s a responsibility that comes with it. I’m looking forward to the challenge,” she said.

She grew up in Syracuse, New York, graduating from Henninger High School. She received her business degree attending St. Bonaventure University in Allegany, New York. Lt. Barnett is a mother and a member of her city school district’s Board of Education. She is also the business owner of Who Want Smoke BBQ & Catering.

The city of Syracuse continues to work on diversity among the ranks. Barnett is one of five Black women in the Syracuse Fire Department, and one of 13 women serving.

CONGRATULATIONS to Lieutenant Tamica Barnett on the recent promotion by the Syracuse Fire Department. This marks her as…

Posted by FireFighters of Color United in Syracuse on Tuesday, May 4, 2021