Culver City Observer -

Charlotte Lotte, Age 11

KidScoop Media Correspondent

On December 11, 2022, many political leaders, members of the press, and parts of the general public gathered in the Microsoft Theater to celebrate the inauguration of LA's first woman, and black woman mayor.

It was an eventful day, with the inauguration moved into the Microsoft Theater instead of on the steps of City Hall, due to the rain. But bad weather didn't stop the event, and a projection of City Hall was used as a backdrop to the stage. Chatter and excitement filled the space, with city council members sitting on stage, along with Mayor Karen Bass and other politicians.

Council members were introduced before Mayor Bass walked on. After an invocation from religious leaders of many different faiths, and the national anthem from U.S Navy Musician Alexander Charles, music, speeches, and poems kicked off the celebration.

Singers Mary Mary performed "Can't Give Up Now," and afterwards Director of UCLA Labor Rights, Kent Wong, gave a speech about his many years working with Karen Bass and the power of nonviolent organizing to help ordinary people to do extraordinary things.

Next, City Council President Paul Krekorian delivered the oath of office for re-elected and newly elected city council members. After, Sophie Szew delivered an expressive and emotional poem; Los Cafeteras performed "La Bamba," the chamber choir at Hamilton high school sang; California senate leader Toni Atkins delivered a speech; and poet Amanda Gorman also performed an incredible poem.

Chloe Bailey sang "All You Need is Love" by the Beatles, followed up by a surprise performance from the legendary Stevie Wonder, who performed a song written for Nelson Mandela, "Keep Love Alive." First female Vice President Kamala Harris then swore in Mayor Bass, as the 43rd mayor of Los Angeles. Mayor Bass made promises and shared her plans for the housing crisis in her speech at the end of the program, concluding this historical day. When asked about the historical importance of the day, newly elected county commissioner Holly Mitchell commented, "Well I think it's amazing! First woman lieutenant governor, first woman who is both in the assembly and pro temp, first woman mayor, all female board of supervisors. How does that make you feel?"