SKOKIE: Muslim community backed Ms. Ann Tennes sworn in as Skokie Mayor along with other city officials at Skokie City Hall.
Long-term Mayor George Van Dusen did not seek re-election, and the swearing-in ceremony was held at Skokie Village Hall, attended by many political activists and officials, people of many faiths, including several Muslim leaders.
The community gathered at Skokie Village Hall to witness the swearing-in of the mayor, the clerk of Skokie, and six trustees.
The swearing-in of the new Mayor Ann Tennes was met with a grand reception. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by a large number of leaders, party leaders, and high-ranking officials.
After taking the oath, Ann Tennes said she will do everything in her power to serve the people and effectively discharge her duties as mayor.
Many television networks broadcast the event live. In addition to notable guests and leaders from more than 100 communities, the event was attended by heads of government from nearby cities.
Addressing participants, Ann Tennes said that we must create an environment that values compassion, trust, integrity, and listening to the community.
She said that everyone including commissions and boards, our government partners, our faith leaders, and organizations adds to the vitality and diversity of our community. She said that we need to prioritize each other, the community, and our talented, committed Skokie employees.
She said that administration will first resolve the problems of the Skokie residents.
She thanked the Pakistani and Muslim communities for their unwavering support. She added that she would not have won without the support of the Muslim community.
Analysts say Skokie’s new administration will have to deal with a number of challenges, such as issues with local residents and employment issues.
Skokie is one of the most diverse cities in Illinois, with more than 65,000 residents who speak nearly 100 different languages. Foreign-born people make up the majority of the population, and new immigrants were constantly coming to Skokie, especially from Pakistan and Iraq.
