Executive Producer and founder of Legacy Works.

If you missed Mayor Rogero’s inauguration Saturday, you missed an opportunity to experience Knoxville at its finest: a civic celebration that was hopeful and inspiring. The event was a seminal turning point in the political life and history of the city.  Saturday Knoxville experienced some positive civic growth spurts.

Mayor Rogero in her carefully crafted inaugural address conveyed to the audience in language we could comprehend that the social, political, and psychological environment would be more inclusive and respectful.  We heard that she intends to listen carefully, make wise decisions, and behave in a manner that’s more inclusive rather than exclusive.  Our new mayor is a seasoned politician, an experienced activist, and thoughtful person.  So we also heard that it is not her modus operandi to run rough shod over those from the left or right to get things done.  We sensed that she is bringing a new era of political dealing to Knoxville.

In 1983 my husband and I worked hard to get Harold Washington elected Chicago’s first African American mayor, and attended his inauguration.  Mayor Rogero’s inauguration conjured up memories of that magnificent occasion.  It was an event that included broad based participation from a cross section of the city. Harold became mayor of all the people, and fought valiantly for the rights of common folk.    Twenty-eight years later, his ability to be inclusive, spread growth, and develop civic pride among many is still alive.  Mayor Daley who was elected to the office after his untimely demise was not able to govern as the “Pharaoh of the Midway” like his father in earlier times.  People from various ethnic, racial, and religious groups who gained political chops under Mayor Washington were able to sustain the initiatives and attitudes started in his regime.  Today, Mayor Rogero spoke so matter-of-factly about the respect and understanding that would be given to all voices in the city. Her words opened a gate that cannot be closed: eloquent and forthright.  She caused audience heads to nod affirmatively, and outbursts of applause to electrify the house.  Harold was there today in spirit passing the torch on to Mayor Rogero.

Today was inclusive, welcoming and inspiring.  It was wonderful to see Governor Haslam, Ambassador Ashe, past County Chairperson Strickland, and many others there to participate in this civic celebration.  The presiding over the ceremonies was The Honorable Daniel Brown, Knoxville’s Police Department Honor Guard presented colors and Marcus L. Walker Jr. sang the National Anthem with such fervor and professionalism that the audience was stunned.  Words were spoken by Governor Haslam and the swearing in ceremonies began.  George Wallace, Marshall Stair, Finbarr Saunders, and Mark Campen were sworn in as city council members: a new breed of politicians who have a collective willingness to work for meaningful change in the civic fabric of Knoxville.  Ms. Rogero with her family was sworn in as mayor.  She then presented her address which was succinct, inclusive and inspiring.  The ceremonies concluded with Ronni Chandler singing, “What About the Children?”  It was a festive, nurturing, and carefully organized event with a great deal of organizational attention paid to the people who attended the ceremony.

There was a wonderful reception afterwards that enabled everyone to meet, greet, and have nourishment.  Our mayor and governor mingled for pictures, autographs, and love.  The Jacob Building where a bomb was thrown when Louie Armstrong performed for an integrated audience in the 1950’s was full of civic pride, diversity and joy this day.   Mayor Rogero at the stroke of 12:00pm called an open meeting of the City Council to elect officers and others.  It was a sight to see: Knoxville citizens observing and participating in the political process.  Mayor Rogero demonstrating in a profound manner that she loves Knoxville and cares about its citizens.  She is the first female mayor of large city in Tennessee.

So you missed the celebration today, sorry about that.  Your job will be to not miss her term as Mayor of Knoxville.  She cannot do the job of changing everything by herself.  You and I must be present and work with her to make transformation possible in the city and the region.  You and I must thank the political leaders before this day that have laid the groundwork for this important time.  It will be our responsibility to work with Mayor Rogero to bring important changes to our political lives.  So I urge you don’t miss the civic celebration.  Do not miss the next four years.  Join the Rogero regime, and participate in the parade.

Sylvia L. Peters