Mayor Mary Sheffield made history twice this month. She became Detroit’s first elected woman mayor and brought back a cherished tradition. The inaugural ball returned to Detroit after 50 years, serving a cause close to her heart.
The Jan. 9 celebration at the Icon Hotel drew over 400 guests. Community leaders and residents gathered for an evening of fellowship and support. The event raised money for families facing homelessness across the city.
Historic Inaugural Ball Returns to Support Homeless Families
Sheffield chose to revive the inaugural ball with a purpose. All ticket sales benefited the Homeless Action Network of Detroit. The nonprofit works to prevent families from losing their homes.
Tasha Gray from the organization shared exciting news about the fundraiser. The money will help approximately 500 households on the verge of homelessness. “With the money from tonight, what we’re going to be doing is working to prevent homelessness for about 500 households who are on the verge of homelessness,” Gray explained.
The mayor made clear that no public money funded the celebration. No taxpayer dollars, transition funds, or campaign money went toward the ball. The event relied entirely on ticket sales and private support.
First Woman Mayor Revives 50-Year-Old Detroit Tradition
The last inaugural ball happened in 1974 for Mayor Coleman Young. Sheffield became the 76th person to lead the Midwestern city. She now hopes to start a new era while honoring old traditions.
Notable guests attended the glitzy affair at the Icon Hotel. Rev. Horace Sheffield and U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib joined hundreds of community members. The evening celebrated both Sheffield’s historic election and Detroit’s future.
Sheffield spoke about the significance of bringing back the tradition. “It’s such an honor to have our first inaugural ball in quite some time,” she said. “It is so exciting to come together and celebrate such a historic election.”
Mayor Sheffield’s Plan to Address Detroit Poverty and Homelessness
Reducing homelessness stands as one of Sheffield’s top priorities. The inaugural ball fundraiser aligned perfectly with her campaign promises. She wants to uplift underserved residents throughout Detroit.
The Democratic mayor has big plans for her tenure. She intends to create a citywide office dedicated to poverty and homelessness. This office will coordinate efforts to help vulnerable Detroit families.
Sheffield won the general election against Solomon Kinloch Jr. in November. She officially took her oath of office on Jan. 1. Her platform focused on helping residents who need support the most.
Community Celebration Marks New Chapter for Detroit Leadership
The inaugural ball symbolized more than just a party. It represented Sheffield’s commitment to bringing people together for important causes. Hundreds of Detroiters showed up to celebrate their new mayor.
Sheffield expressed gratitude for the support she received during her campaign. “I thank every single Detroiter who showed up and supported me to lead this great city,” she stated. Her words reflected the collaborative spirit she hopes to bring to city hall.
The event marked the beginning of a historic tenure. As Detroit’s first woman mayor, Sheffield carries the hopes of many residents. Her focus on homelessness and poverty shows her dedication to serving all Detroiters.