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First Black Mayor of El Paso

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PHOTOS: El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson, new city representatives sworn into office

by Elida S. Perez, El Paso Matters
January 7, 2025

Renard Johnson was sworn in as El Paso mayor Monday alongside six city representatives and a handful of municipal court judges during a ceremony at the Plaza Theatre in Downtown.

“Today marks a new chapter for our city, a day to reflect on where we have been, celebrate where we are, and to look forward with hope and determination where we are headed,” said Johnson, the city’s first Black mayor, after being sworn in by El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego. “I am honored to stand before you today as your new mayor.”

The Star on the Mountain, under the Starlighters program of the El Paso Chamber, was lit blue in honor of Johnson by his family Monday.

“Together we will tackle the challenges that lie ahead and make our city a better place to live,” he said, addressing the new council and staff and all public servants in the community. “El Paso is a city with rich history, a vibrant culture and an unbreakable spirit.”

In addressing El Paso residents, Johnson promised to serve with “humility, transparency and dedication,” saying he will never forget his duty is to the “people of this great city.”

More than 1,000 people – including family members, city employees and community and business leaders – attended the ceremony and the reception that followed at the theater’s lobby.

READ ALSO: Mayor-elect Renard Johnson talks about economic development, taxes, services and other issues

Also sworn in were city representatives Alejandra Chávez, District 1; Josh Acevedo, District 2; Deanna Maldonado Rocha, District 3; Cynthia Boyar Trejo, District 4; Ivan Niño, District 5; and Lily Limón, District 7.

RELATED: What exactly does an El Paso mayor do? We explain

The new elected city leadership will begin their official duties at Tuesday’s City Council meeting. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. at City Hall, 300 N. Campbell St., and is open to the public.

You can watch council meetings live at the city’s YouTube channel. Find meeting agendas here, and sign up to speak at council meetings here.

Municipal court judges sworn in Monday include Michelle Morales, Kristin Romero, David A. Bonilla, Samuel Flores and Mike Herrera, as well as court of appeals Judge Maria B. Ramirez.

Here are some photos from Monday’s ceremony:

  • Newly-elected officials and judges for the city of El Paso applaud after the Star-Spangled Banner is sung, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Lily Limón is sworn in as city representative for District 7 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Ivan Niño is sworn in as city representative for District 5 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Cynthia Boyar Trejo is sworn in as city representative for District 4 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Deanna Maldonado-Rocha is sworn in as city representative for District 3 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Josh Acevedo is sworn in as city representative for District 2 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Alejandra Chavez is sworn in as city representative for District 1 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Renard Johnson, accompanied by his daughters, Aviva, left, and Neveah, stands to sworn in as El Paso city mayor by County Judge Ricardo Samaniego, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego, left, congratulates newly-sworn in city of El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson and his family, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Mayor Renard Johnson, left, and Ciudad Juárez Mayor Cruz Pérez Cuéllar embrace after Johnson's swearing-in at Plaza Theatre Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)

Several El Paso county officials were sworn into office in separate ceremonies over the past few days, including Oscar Ugarte as county sheriff; Christina Sanchez as county attorney; Jackie Arroyo Butler as Precinct 1 county commissioner; and James Montoya as district attorney.

This article first appeared on El Paso Matters and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

Afro-Latinx Heritage Week: September 29 – October 5, 2024

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Via the City of El Paso: “We are excited to announce that from September 29 to October 5, 2024, we will celebrate “El Paso Afro-Latinx Heritage Week”! Founded by the inspiring Dr. Jackeline Biddle Richard, this week is dedicated to raising awareness and educating our community about the rich Afro-Latinx experience in the United States.
As we honor the legacy of individuals like Nancy Lorenza Green and recognize the contributions of champions like Tomas Arellano, Angie Barraza, Maria Kennedy, Adenaji Jones-Tornes, Tanya Berry, and many others, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting a more inclusive and equitable El Paso.
Join us in celebrating the vibrant heritage, culture, and contributions of our Afro-Latinx community! Let’s come together to create connections and uplift voices that enrich our city.”
Stay tuned to find out about upcoming events and educational sessions relating to #AfroLatina #AfroLatinoHeritage … sign up at soymaravillosa.org.  #AfroLatinxHeritageWeek #ElPasoPride #SoyMaravillosa

Ryan O. Adams Hosts New Podcast featuring Black History and Culture

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In a time when Black history and culture narratives hold greater significance than ever, Ryan O. Adams proudly introduces his groundbreaking podcast, “Beware the Day.” Embarking on a captivating exploration of the rich history and culture of the Black community, the podcast pays tribute to the triumphs, resilience, and contributions of individuals who have left an enduring impact on the world.
Each episode of “Beware the Day” delves into the heart of Black history, uncovering untold stories, recognizing unsung heroes, and exploring pivotal moments that have shaped the African diaspora. Serving as a bridge that connects the past, present, and future, the podcast offers a distinctive perspective on the diverse facets of Black culture.
Listeners can anticipate thought-provoking discussions, insightful interviews, and expert commentary shedding light on the complexities of the Black experience. Covering topics from art to economics, “Beware the Day” highlights subjects that have influenced the African diaspora, leaving an indelible imprint on global history.
According to Ryan O. Adams, the host of “Beware the Day,” the podcast is more than just a podcast; it’s a celebration of heritage, a testament to resilience, and an exploration of Black history and culture’s profound impact on shaping our world.
The podcast invites its audience to join an enlightening journey, embracing the power of knowledge and understanding while honoring the roots that connect us all. However, Adams is not stopping there. He is taking a step further in preserving and promoting Black heritage by announcing the formation of an interest group that will lead to the establishment of the Dr. Maceo Dailey Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).
“In light of recent events in Florida, I believe that NOW is the time to establish a branch in the Borderland,” says Adams. The mission of ASALH, founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1915, is to promote, research, preserve, interpret, and disseminate information about Black life, history, and culture to the global community.
Adams stated, “Dr. Dailey and my father, the Rev. Dr. Richard T. Adams Jr. charged me with the task of standing up a branch here in El Paso.” The vision of ASALH is to be the premier Black Heritage learned society with a robust network of national and international branches and partners, continuing the Woodson legacy.
For more information about the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, please visit asalh.org.
“Beware the Day with Ryan O. Adams” is available on all major podcast platforms. Join the enlightening journey and celebrate the power of Black history and culture.
About Ryan O. Adams:
Ryan O. Adams is a passionate advocate for celebrating and preserving Black history and culture. As the host of “Beware the Day,” Adams invites listeners to explore the untold stories and unsung heroes that have shaped the African diaspora. Committed to bridging the past, present, and future through his work, Adams honors the roots that connect us all.

Contact Ryan at bewaretheday@gmail.com.

Click here to listen to Ryan’s podcast on Black History and Culture.