Detroit's Poet Laureate Delivers Powerful Inauguration Poem for Mayor Mary Sheffield

jessica Care moore's words honor Detroit's history and future under the city's first woman mayor.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Detroit poet jessica Care moore delivered a powerful poem at the inauguration of Mayor Mary Sheffield, the first woman to hold the office. Moore's words grounded the political ceremony in Detroit's history, struggle, and hope, weaving together themes of community, accountability, and the responsibility of leadership.

Why it matters

In a city where poetry has often served as a form of witness and resistance, moore's contribution stands as a reminder that art remains central to civic life. Her poem affirms the importance of community, representation, and the sacred duty of elected officials to serve the people.

The details

Moore's poem, titled "We Rise Higher: 'The Beauty is in the Resume'," honors Mayor Sheffield's historic election and her deep roots in Detroit. The poet traces Sheffield's lineage back to the 1800s, highlighting her background as a "nurse's child" and "preacher's daughter" who decided to put her "distinct voice into the very male dominated sound of leadership." Moore celebrates Sheffield's compassion, her connection to the community, and her commitment to issues like fighting poverty and supporting mothers and babies.

  • On November 4th, Detroit elected Mary Sheffield as its 76th mayor.
  • Mayor Sheffield was inaugurated on January 8, 2026.

The players

jessica Care moore

Detroit's Poet Laureate, a poet and cultural architect whose work speaks to memory and possibility.

Mary Sheffield

The first woman to be elected mayor of Detroit, with deep roots in the city's history and a commitment to serving the community.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When you are a woman in any race, the baton isn't always Passed to you with grace. Often times, one must go get it with conviction, with purpose, with clarity.”

— jessica Care moore, Detroit Poet Laureate (michiganchronicle.com)

“She has been walking the actual walk And when she runs, she actually runs! Because, We Run 313”

— jessica Care moore, Detroit Poet Laureate (michiganchronicle.com)

What’s next

Mayor Sheffield's first bold announcement as mayor was centered around lifting up pregnant mothers and babies, signaling her commitment to fighting poverty and investing in the city's future.

The takeaway

Moore's poem serves as a powerful affirmation of Detroit's resilience, the importance of representation in leadership, and the transformative potential of art to shape civic life. It celebrates the election of Mayor Sheffield as a historic moment that opens the door to a more equitable and just future for the city.