Morgan State alum Edward Gainey becomes Pittsburgh’s first Black mayor

Democrat Edward Gainey has become Pittsburgh’s next mayor.

Edward Gainey is Pittsburgh’s next mayor

He also made history as the city’s first Black person to hold the position.

“Look at the image that we are showing our children. I want our children to see what a city for all looks like. I want our children to see that we don’t separate by divided lines, but we as one community, we as one city are here for them,” Gainey said.

This victory isn’t just my victory, it’s a Pittsburgh victory. This City never gave up on me, no matter how tough it got, and I will always believe in Pittsburgh. I know that we can bring this City together. Our rivers and valleys keep us apart… /1 pic.twitter.com/83edpyiEQH

— Ed Gainey (@gainey_ed) November 3, 2021

Who Is the new mayor?

Edward Gainey is a Morgan State University graduate who served in various government agencies before winning a seat in the state House of Representatives in 2012.

In an earlier interview with KDKA, Gainey outlined some of the changes to expect, including in police-community relations.

“There’s going to be a couple of changes. One, we will not tolerate any officers that make racist comments. We’re not going to do it. You can’t grow a city on racism.

“Two, we will definitely be having police officers walk the beat. There’s no question about that.

“Thirdly, we’re not going to over-police communities. We have seen the trauma that has been brought to Black and brown communities. We will change that. And we believe that social workers need to go out on calls, and we’re serious about that and will develop that.”

Gainey said the key to reducing the crime rate in these communities is a more respectful police force.

“We have to rebuild the trust that has eroded between police and community. We have to. If not, we can’t get better. So at the end of the day, that’s what I’m focused on. It’s how we build better relationships, and I’m willing to do that,” Gainey said.

The 51-year-old current Pennsylvania Rep will take the oath of office as mayor on Monday, January 3.