Pocono News Section

Local Woman Walking to Washington

Local Woman Walking to Washington - Friday, July 3, 2009 at 6:20PM EST

Reported by: Eyewitness News
Friday, Jul 3, 2009 @ 06:20pm EST
KRESGEVILLE, MONROE COUNTY- 230 miles - not too far of a drive, but how about a walk? That's how long Debbie Hartley of Effort is walking on her way to Washington, D. C. to meet with lawmakers.

She's a former police officer who says she and many other women in law enforcement are victims of sexual harassment and discrimination.

Hartley says it seems more women are getting into law enforcement, but just as many are leaving. "So many women in law enforcement have to sacrifice their careers because of the obstacles they face as women police officers. Mostly dealing with gender bias, discrimination, and sexual harassment."

She's stopping in Harrisburg next week to speak with Governor Ed Rendell. And she hopes to talk to First Lady Michelle Obama when she reaches the capital.

Debbie plans on walking about 15 miles a day and expects to reach D. C. on July 20th.