On January 1, history was made in Detroit as Mary Sheffield was sworn in as the city's first woman mayor, marking a powerful milestone for Black women in leadership.

The ceremony took place at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, with City Clerk Janice Winfrey administering the oath amid a tight circle of family.

“I am incredibly honored to serve as Detroit's mayor," Sheffield said in a statement, according to CBS. "This moment is bigger than me – it represents progress, possibility and the power of community. Together, we will work to ensure Detroit's future is inclusive, equitable and rooted in opportunity for every neighborhood." 

Right out the gate, Sheffield hit the streets to serve lunch to first responders and dish up meals at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, local outlets reported. 

It was a hands-on start, embodying her pledge to public service. "My administration will be rooted in service to others. On my first day as mayor, it was important for me to thank those who quietly serve our community every day, particularly our first responders and those providing critical support to our most vulnerable residents," she said a statement. "Serving Detroiters and leading city employees effectively begins with meeting them where they are, listening and letting them know how much they are valued." 

​As Sheffield takes the helm as Detroit’s 76th mayor, Motor City residents and beyond are looking to Sheffield to see what she has in store.

For a city with deep Black roots, Sheffield's rise feels like a beacon. Born and raised in Detroit's Brightmoor neighborhood, she's long fought for equity as a council president. Her vision promises to tackle housing, public safety, and economic growth while centering the voices of overlooked communities.

Check out a small snippet of Sheffield's ceremony below!