Newark Mayor Baraka Delivers 12th State of the City Address

Themed 'Our City, Our Story — Newark Then, Now, and Next', the speech highlights the city's progress and outlines a bold vision for its future.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:07pm

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Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka delivered his 12th annual State of the City Address, reflecting on the city's transformation and outlining the collaborative advancements and accomplishments of his three-term administration. The event provided an opportunity for residents, business leaders, non-profit organizations, and community stakeholders to learn about Newark's progress across various areas, including public safety, youth and education, senior services, homelessness, sustainability, and economic development.

Why it matters

As one of the largest cities in New Jersey, Newark's State of the City address serves as a crucial platform for the mayor to showcase the city's progress, address challenges, and outline a vision for the future. The speech highlights Newark's efforts to become a national model of next-level governance, showcasing the city's resilience, determination, and ability to rise above obstacles.

The details

The speech covered a wide range of topics, including the successful completion of the Newark Consent Decree, a historic low in the city's murder rate, the expansion of the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery (OVPTR), and the growth of youth employment and education programs. Mayor Baraka also highlighted the city's efforts to support seniors, address homelessness, and improve sustainability and digital equity. The address also touched on Newark's economic development, including the expansion of the arts and education district, the growth of the film and television industry, and the development of affordable housing.

  • The State of the City Address was delivered on March 31, 2026.
  • The Newark Consent Decree ended in 2025 after nine years of reform.
  • The city recorded its lowest murder rate since 1953 in 2025.

The players

Mayor Ras J. Baraka

The mayor of Newark, New Jersey, who has served three terms and delivered the 12th annual State of the City Address.

Council Member Luis A. Quintana

A Newark city council member who delivered the welcome at the State of the City event.

Reverend Marques-Aquil Lewis

The reverend who delivered the invocation at the State of the City event.

Newark Honor Guard

The group that presented the colors at the State of the City event.

Arts High School Choir

The choir that rendered the National Anthem and 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' at the State of the City event.

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What they’re saying

“In the face of so much 'ugly,' we present to you the beauty of our city today and tomorrow... to show you our labor of love... We know movements are created out of feelings of love and enormous sacrifice.”

— Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Mayor of Newark

“Rooted in compassion, action, and impact, our strategy relies on our ability to create more housing choices – not shelters.”

— Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Mayor of Newark

“While the country is moving away from equity, it is time that we begin to lean in... We need all of our financial experts and partners, corporations, capital investment institutions, public sector leaders.”

— Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Mayor of Newark

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Newark's State of the City address showcases the city's resilience, determination, and ability to rise above challenges, as it continues to transform into a national model of next-level governance. The mayor's bold vision and the city's collaborative efforts across various sectors have driven progress and positioned Newark as a thriving, equitable, and inclusive community.