Roslyn Harmon Sworn In as Golden Valley’s First Black Mayor
This week marked a new era for the city of Golden Valley.
Tuesday night, Roslyn Harmon was sworn in as the new mayor, making her the first person of color to hold that office.
Dozens of friends, family members, and elected officials — including U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar and St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter — joined Harmon Tuesday evening in the Golden Valley City Council chambers as she took the oath of office.
Golden Valley Mayor Roslyn Harmon takes the gavel from former Mayor Shep Harris.
After the swearing-in ceremony, Harmon acknowledged the historic nature of her election and thanked the people who voted her into office this past November.
“This has been a historic election for the state of Minnesota, okay. For not only St. Paul, but St. Louis Park, as well as right here in Golden Valley. And we are all excited,” Mayor Harmon told the crowd. “To the residents and citizens of Golden Valley, I am up here, we are up here, for you. That is what this is about, and so I just want to make it loud and clear that community comes first, and your voice will be heard.”
Harmon won election by just 26 votes. Her mother is Rose McGee, who founded the Sweet Potato Comfort Pie initiative.
Related: Election History: Harmon Set To Be First Person of Color in Golden Valley Mayor’s Seat
