Tonight - by taking this solemn oath - I am no longer a private citizen but the Mayor of the City of Chicago.

Chicago’s neighborhoods have always been the city’s greatest strength.

We must care. We must all care. And while I am working, while the governments is working, so must the people also work.

I am here before you tonight to dedicate this administration to bringing a new renaissance of neighborhood life and community spirit, a renewal of confidence in the future of our city and a revival of opportunity for all Chicago.

City employees will be hired and promoted because of their abilities - without outside interference.

In the days and months I spent walking through the various communities of this city, I found that Chicago did not work for everyone, however.

But as important as the job to be done by government in the neighborhoods, the people must also be involved.