Lisa Demuth Sworn In As First Black Woman Speaker Of The House During Black History Month

Lisa Demuth Sworn In As First Black Woman Speaker Of The House During Black History Month

In a significant stride for representation in Minnesota politics, Rep. Lisa Demuth was sworn in as the state's first Black woman to serve as Speaker of the House. The swearing-in ceremony, conducted by Senate President Bobby Joe Champion, marked the commencement of the 2025 legislative session in the House chamber on Thursday. Champion himself being the first Black Senate President in Minnesota's history, knows the weight of such a milestone, especially as it unfolds during Black History Month.

With members of the House gathered, Demuth stepped into a role that carries not only the weight of her immediate responsibilities but also stands as a beacon of progress for many in the community. In a statement obtained by Senate DFL's official website, President Champion expressed the shared honor in these historic firsts. "Just as I had the privilege of being elected the first Black President of the Minnesota Senate two years ago, I was equally an honor to walk across the Capitol Thursday to swear in Lisa Demuth as Minnesota’s first-ever Black woman Speaker of the House," he said.

The latter's position was reaffirmed earlier this week when Senator Champion was reelected to his post, reflecting a continuity of leadership that holds promise for consistency and experience at the helm of the state's legislative process. His leadership in tandem with Speaker Demuth is expected to navigate the upcoming session with a renewed focus on the challenges ahead for Minnesota.

"Now it's time for us all to roll up our sleeves and prioritize the work we must do to move Minnesota forward," Champion added , underlining the spirit of commitment and determination to see the state through progressive changes. As lawmakers prepare to tackle the issues laid out before them, eyes are on Speaker Demuth as a symbol of advancement in a political landscape that continues to diversify and, ideally, become more inclusive of the constituents it serves.

SOURCE: hoodline