DETROIT – Detroit marked a historic moment, on Thursday, as Mary Sheffield was officially sworn in as the city’s new mayor, becoming the first woman ever to hold the office.
The brief, private ceremony, required by the city charter, took place Thursday morning with members of Sheffield’s family in attendance. Moments after taking the oath, the new mayor stepped directly into a full day of public service across the city.
Mayor Sheffield made Detroit’s first responders her first official stop, visiting a fire station and the city’s public safety center to meet with firefighters and police officers.
“I just really want you all to know that I see you and I appreciate you,” Sheffield told them. “I’m looking forward to addressing some of the concerns that you all have as we continue to invest into the men and women of this department.”
Sheffield said that throughout her campaign she met with associations and union leaders to better understand the concerns, priorities, and needs of Detroit’s first responders. Those conversations, she indicated, will help shape her administration’s early actions on public safety and worker support.
During her first day, Sheffield also formally introduced Detroit’s new deputy mayor, Brian White. He underscored that improving pay for city workers will be a key priority for the new administration.
“One of the first actions is going to be looking at pay across the board,” White said. “We want everyone who works with the city to have a living wage. So, we are already in those conversations.”
Sheffield’s day continued with a visit to Detroit’s Capuchin Soup Kitchen, where she spent time speaking with residents, volunteers, and staff. She also rolled up her sleeves to help serve meals.
Joining her was her husband, Rickey Jackson, who now holds the distinction of being Detroit’s first “First Gentleman.” Jackson was by her side throughout the day, as the new mayor emphasized her commitment to service and accessibility.
“It’s just important that as I take office today, and serve these next four years, that everyone feels that I am their mayor,” Sheffield said. “And that I’m going to represent and uplift their voices. I am a mayor for everyone.”
A larger public inauguration ceremony recognizing Mayor Sheffield is scheduled for January 9. Until then, she says her team is already preparing major policy announcements.
The mayor indicated that the first of those is expected as soon as Monday, with an announcement she says will directly impact families and babies in Detroit.
As a new year begins, Mayor Mary Sheffield is signaling that her term will be defined by visibility in the community, support for city workers, and a pledge to serve every corner of the city.