Moore Sworn In, Makes History Before Cheering Crowd
ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Wes Moore made history on January 18, 2023 by becoming the first Black governor of Maryland. The packed inauguration ceremony in front of the Maryland State House marked a seminal moment as Moore took the oath of office.
Moore laid out bold policy goals in his inauguration speech that drew cheers from the thousands gathered to witness the historic event. His ambitious agenda aims to confront inequality and make Maryland a national leader on issues from clean energy to police accountability.
The 44-year-old Moore punctuated the ceremony with acknowledgments of Black history. This included a morning wreath-laying event at the Annapolis City Dock, once a regional slave port. Moore was joined by prominent Black leaders in a symbolic procession to the dock memorial commemorating African American ancestor Kunta Kinte.
Vowing to Fight Inequity and Crime
In his inaugural address, Moore pledged “to work for greater inclusion and economic equity” for all Maryland residents. He described the state as “asset-rich and strategy poor” despite its wealth.
“It is time for our policies to be as bold as our aspirations — and to confront the fact that we have been offered false choices,” Moore said. “We do not have to choose between a competitive economy and an equitable one.”
Crime was another focal point. Moore committed to curbing violence while transforming law enforcement through “accountability” and emphasis on “integrity.”
“We do not have to choose between being a safe state and a just one,” he stated. “Maryland can, and we will, be both.”
Firsts: Immigrant Lt. Governor, Black Governor
Moore made history alongside running mate Aruna Miller, the first immigrant and Asian American elected statewide.
“Gov. Moore and I see you, we hear you, we will fight for you,” said Miller, who also gave remarks.
Among those bearing witness was Michael Steele, Maryland’s first Black candidate elected statewide. He called it an “exciting day” representing “progress.”
The new governor takes office over 300 years after the first enslaved Africans arrived in chains to Annapolis’ docks. Moore is only the third elected Black governor in American history.
Education and Climate Change Priorities
Moore announced education investments including a statewide youth service initiative. He also aims for Maryland to lead on climate change policy.
“Confronting climate change represents another chance for Maryland to lead,” he said. “We can and we will be a leader in wind technology, in grid electrification, and clean transit.”
Moore set a goal for 100% clean energy by 2035 in the speech. Hitting the target would “create thousands of jobs,” he added.
‘Getting Started’ As Public Servant
Moore has devoted much of his career to public service despite being new to elected office. He is a Rhodes scholar, combat veteran, and led the Robin Hood Foundation anti-poverty nonprofit.
“This might be his first day as an elected official, but Wes Moore has been a public servant his entire adult life,” said Oprah Winfrey, who introduced Moore. “And there’s so much more to come. He’s just getting started.”
The governor grew up in Baltimore and won the statewide election by over 30 points. His decisive victory underscored the historic magnitude of swearing in Maryland’s first Black state leader. For many witnesses among the joyful crowds, it marked the realization of long-awaited change.
