ST PAUL, Minn — St. Paul leaders officially certified and accepted the results of last week's election Wednesday afternoon, meaning St. Paul officially has its first female-led council.
But that's not the only reason why this is historic.
The majority are also women of color, and it's also a group of progressive, young leaders.
“People are ready for new leadership,” said Saura Jost, incoming council member for Ward 3.
“We’re women. We’re women of color and we’re also experienced,” said Cheniqua Johnson, who was elected to represent Ward 7. “And our communities trust us.”
“I’ve seen these women become leaders in their communities for many years. They inspire me,” said Hwa Jeong Kim, who is taking over Ward 5's seat.
Council member Nelsie Yang, who was re-elected for Ward 6, said she is excited to see younger council members. Yang was the youngest council member to be elected at the time at 23 years old. She was sworn in in 2020.
“It is going to be a progressive slate of leaders representing St. Paul,” said Yang. “And this is so needed.”
“St. Paul has an historic opportunity to achieve progress for all in our community,” said Mitra Jalali, who was reelected to Ward 4. “I am excited to work for a safe and stable home for everyone, fix our streets while acting on the climate crisis, fully fund community-led public safety programs, deliver for working class St. Paulites in every neighborhood, and so much more.”
"I come from the Rondo community, a historical black neighborhood & businesses corridor that was disrupted by the implementation of highway I-94," said Anika Bowie, who will be the new representative of Ward 1. "Over 50 years later, everyone is feeling the risk of being left out of the decision-making process. My vision is to lead a more inclusive economy, development, community public-safety & governance approach."
“The number one thing I hear door-knocking in Ward 3 is really wanting to see an investment in our infrastructure,” said Jost. “Especially our roads.”
“Housing continues to be an issue for the city but especially on the East Side of Saint Paul,” said Johnson. “And right there next to it is public safety, because what good is a house if you don’t feel safe.”
“We’re going to have so many more leaders championing climate justice,” said Yang.
“Workers' rights and protections, and community-first public safety initiatives that focus on social and mental health resources are vital,” said Kim.
The new council will be sworn in in January.