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Amina Bey sworn in as Newark Central Ward councilwoman; supporters call ceremony historic
Summary
Amina Bey was officially sworn in as councilwoman for Newark’s Central Ward in a ceremony with prayers, music and remarks from federal and local officials. Speakers highlighted Bey’s work with Newark Emergency Services for Families and said she intends to focus on homelessness, food insecurity and housing.
Councilwoman Amina Bey was sworn in as Newark’s Central Ward representative during a ceremony at City Hall that included musical performances, prayers and remarks from local and federal officials.
North City Clerk Keisha Daniels administered the oath of office; Amina Bey repeated the oath and affirmed she would "faithfully, impartially and justly perform all of the duties of the office of council member, Central Ward." The ceremony drew elected officials, clergy and community supporters.
Supporters at the event described the swearing‑in as a historic moment. "Amina Bey, the first Muslim elected to this council," said Congresswoman LaMonica MacGyver during her remarks. An event speaker also praised Bey’s community work, saying she had "fed over 11,000 families" and coordinated large daily food distributions during crises.
In remarks after the oath, Councilwoman Bey thanked mentors, family and campaign staff and framed immediate priorities for the Central Ward: "we are going to continue the progress... to end homelessness, to make sure that we attack food insecurity, to make sure that we attack housing insecurity," she said, adding that residents "don't have time" to wait after 18 months without ward representation.
Bey highlighted her work with Newark Emergency Services for Families, saying staff kept services running while she campaigned. The ceremony included an invocation led by Imam Qasim Amin Athari and a prayer from Reverend May be Bridgeforth, and musical performances by the Arts High School choir.
The program closed with photographs in the rotunda and a call to community action from Bey and fellow officials. No council votes or formal policy actions were taken during the event; it was strictly ceremonial and celebratory.
