North Miami Beach has welcomed its first Black mayor, Michael Joseph, a civil rights attorney and advocate for unity. His swearing-in ceremony on December 10, 2024, at the Julius Littman Performing Arts Theater marked a historic moment for the city. Joseph’s win signals progress and a fresh leadership perspective for a community rich in diversity.
A Historic Moment for North Miami Beach
Michael Joseph, 43, stood proudly during the induction ceremony, joined by family, friends, and supporters. His speech acknowledged the journey that brought him to this milestone.
“This wasn’t supposed to be me,” he said, reflecting on his Haitian parents’ hard work as a janitor and a maid after immigrating to the U.S. Joseph worked through college and law school, embodying the resilience of the American dream.
His election is not just a personal victory but a win for a city where Black and Hispanic residents make up over 80% of the population. For the first time, North Miami Beach has a leader who mirrors the struggles and aspirations of its people.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Trust
Joseph’s journey to the mayor’s office wasn’t without obstacles. He previously boycotted city commission meetings, protesting alleged misconduct by former Mayor Anthony DeFillipo. Despite criticism and legal challenges, Joseph remained steadfast in his commitment to transparency and fairness.
“If you’re honest with the community, they will always back you,” he stated. This trust helped him secure victory over incumbent Evan Piper in the December election.
Outgoing Mayor Piper praised Joseph’s leadership skills, saying, “Your success is our city’s success. We are confident your leadership will bring meaningful progress.”
Setting Bold Goals for the City
As mayor, Joseph has outlined ambitious priorities, including affordable housing, economic revitalization, and improving infrastructure. His focus in the first 100 days is to build consensus among the commission and create actionable plans.
“The community wants results,” Joseph explained. “They want the city to run smoothly, resources utilized effectively, and neighborhoods kept safe.”
North Miami Beach’s evolving demographics highlight Joseph’s role as a unifying figure. His leadership is expected to address long-standing issues while fostering inclusivity and growth.
Celebrating Diversity in Leadership
Joseph’s election wasn’t the only historic moment on election night. Voters also elected Lynn Su, the city’s first Asian-American commissioner, adding another layer of diversity to local governance.
Su, who overcame doubts about her electability, noted, “Despite the odds, our city showed that inclusion matters.” Her victory underscores a new era for North Miami Beach, where leaders reflect the city’s dynamic community.
