DETROIT – Friday marked a milestone in the city of Detroit, as Mayor Mary Sheffield ceremonially took the oath of office at the Detroit Opera House, becoming the first woman elected mayor in the city’s 321-year history.
“I stand before you all deeply, deeply humbled and honored to serve as the 76th Mayor of the city of Detroit,” Sheffield said during the ceremony, delivered to a crowd filled with neighbors, community organizers, city leaders, and residents from across Metro Detroit.
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The atmosphere inside the Opera House on Jan. 9, 2026, was celebratory, with supporters calling the moment significant not only for city politics but also for what it represents to Detroit’s next generation—especially women and girls, who attended in large numbers.
“It’s time. It’s time for change in Detroit. But it’s time for wonderful female leadership. I’m so proud,” said advocate Gwen Thomas.
Gabrielle Wilson, a nonprofit leader, said Sheffield’s election sends a powerful message to young Detroiters.
“I think this is beautiful for our young women that are growing up, to have a role model to understand that yes, they can. It’s possible for all of us,” Wilson said. “But to see a woman in leadership is something that I’m most excited for.”
Sheffield framed the day as the start of a new era for Detroit, telling the audience, “Today, we begin a new chapter,” while emphasizing unity, resilience, and shared purpose.
“Let this moment remind us of our strength. Our resilience and what is possible when we move forward together with shared purpose,” Sheffield said.
Although the ceremony drew major attention, Sheffield and her team have already been at work since formally taking office Jan. 1.
In addition to the investiture events, she has spent time in the community visiting local businesses, senior residents, and high school students—an approach supporters say reflects an intent to stay connected to everyday Detroiters.
UAW Region 1 Director LaShawn English said he hopes the new administration continues Detroit’s upward trajectory. “What I’m looking forward to is seeing the city of Detroit continue to grow,” English said.
“Detroit is the heart. And we’ve got to bring the heart back to Detroit,” said English.
Sheffield is continuing to promote her campaign slogan, “Rise Higher Detroit,” positioning it as a commitment to rebuilding the city, creating strong job opportunities, and investing in residents across every neighborhood—regardless of background or circumstance.
Minister Aarena Green, a resident in attendance, expressed optimism about the new mayor’s leadership.
“She’s young. She’s vibrant,” Green said. “All I can think is optimistically. I hope everything goes well. I’m praying for her and her staff. And I believe that good things are coming.”
Sheffield said she is working to announce major public initiatives during her first 100 days in office, signaling that the weeks ahead will bring new policy rollouts and priorities from her administration.
For many in attendance, the swearing-in was both symbolic and forward-looking.
A historic first, and a call for Detroiters to push together toward what Sheffield described as a possibility.