Campaign Announcement draws over 3,000 Detroiters to hear highlights of her vision for neighborhood revitalization, family safety, affordable housing, economic growth and youth empowerment
DETROIT, MI] Dec. 11, 2024 – Mary Sheffield, Detroit City Council president and a lifelong Detroiter, officially launched her campaign for mayor at The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 58 before an enthusiastic crowd of residents, community leaders and advocates. The announcement filled the venue to capacity and reflects the overwhelming energy and collective support behind her campaign. Remarks amplifying her passion, commitment and vision for Detroit included Judge Greg Mathis, former Michigan 26th District Court judge, Cindy Pasky, Founder, President and CEO of Strategic Staffing Solutions, Tommey Walker, Founder of Detroit vs. Everybody, and Melissa Butler, CEO of The Lip Bar.
Sheffield delivered a poignant address based on collaboration and hope, outlining her vision for a more united Detroit that prioritizes all residents.
“Today, I stand before you filled with hope, pride and an unshakable belief in our city and in each of you,” Sheffield said. “This campaign is not about me, it’s about our collective future, this campaign is about ensuring that we build on the growth and the progress we’ve created together – and to ensure that our City’s prosperity touches the lives of every resident. Together we can and together we will .”
Sheffield highlighted her dedication to service, rooted in her upbringing in Detroit and inspired by a lifelong commitment to civil rights, social justice and public service. As a council member for eleven years, she has championed initiatives such as inclusionary housing, home repair grants and the Neighborhood Beautification Program. Her mayoral candidacy builds on this foundation, focusing on revitalizing neighborhoods, safety for Detroit families, expanding affordable housing, fostering economic mobility and growth, and empowering youth through education and mentorship.
“My vision for Detroit is simple: It’s one where every Detroiter can reach their full potential,” Sheffield said. “A city with vibrant neighborhoods, safe streets, affordable housing and economic opportunities for all. Together, we can build a Detroit where every family has a path to prosperity.”
The announcement drew a diverse audience united by Sheffield’s vision for Detroit’s future. Rally signs reading “Together We Can, Together We Will” highlighted the energy and collective commitment behind her campaign.
“From Day 1, I first met Mary Sheffield, it wasn’t in a fancy gala or a business event. She was right there in my neighborhood, in the community, knocking on doors and talking to the people,” said Georgia Cole, President of LaSalle Beautiful Block Club in District 5. “She wasn’t trying to get a photo op. From day one, all she asked was, “How are you? How can I help? She is a servant leader, a true leader. If you call her, she gets the job done.”
Sheffield acknowledged Detroit’s progress over the past decade while emphasizing the work still ahead. “Over the last 11 years, we have built a legacy of working together to accomplish so much in service to Detroit and its people,” she said. “Today is about coming together to write the next chapter in Detroit’s great history. Because I believe that coming together as one is the key to helping every Detroiter reach their full potential.”
In her closing remarks, Sheffield invited Detroiters to join her in building a city defined by unity and progress. “Detroit, I believe in our potential, and I believe in each of you,” she said. “The road we’re walking isn’t going to be easy, and I know that there is much work to be done. But there is nowhere else in the world I’d rather be, and there is no worthier cause I’d rather serve than working every day for the people of the City of Detroit. Together, we can. And together, we will.”
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About Mary Sheffield
Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield made history as the youngest council member elected in 2013 representing District 5. For the past 11 years, Sheffield has served as chair of the Neighborhood and Community Services Standing Committee, and as a member of the Planning, Economic Development, Budget Finance, and Audit Standing Committees for the Council. Additionally, Council President has been instrumental in passing 23 significant legislations during her tenure on the Detroit City Council some of which include: Inclusionary Housing, Property Tax Reform, Home Repair Grant Funding, Neighborhood Improvement Fund, Neighborhood Beautification Program, Homeowner Property Tax Exemption (HOPE) and Right to Counsel.
Sheffield’s public awards and recognitions include being named to Crain’s Detroit Business’s ‘Twenty in their 20s’ honorees in 2014, and Crain’s ‘40 Under 40’ honorees in 2022; Michigan Chronicle’s 2022 Class of ‘Women of Excellence’ and ‘Power 50 Leaders’ in 2024; Detroit Branch NAACP’s Great Expectations Award in 2016; the Black United Fund’s 2024 Black Excellence Award; the 2023 JoAnn Watson Soul Day Soul Sister Award, and the 2021 Maryann Mahaffey/Erma Henderson Elected Official of the Year Award.
Visit marysheffield.com for more information.
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