Syracuse Elects First Black Mayor, Sharon Owens

Syracuse has officially made history! On November 4th, 62-year-old Sharon Owens was elected as the city’s first Black mayor, also marking her as the second woman to hold the esteemed position. This monumental victory is being celebrated not just as a win, but as a powerful movement fueled by community and a shared vision for a brighter future.

A Landslide Victory for Owens

Owens secured a decisive win, capturing over 73% of the vote, which translated to more than 13,000 ballots cast in her favor. She triumphed over Republican Thomas Babilon and independents Alfonso Davis and Tim Rudd, according to unofficial results. This overwhelming support underscores the community’s confidence in her leadership.

Her campaign team shared their excitement on Instagram, stating, “We did it, Syracuse. Sharon Owens has been elected our next mayor! This is more than a win — it’s a movement powered by community, love, and a shared vision for a stronger Syracuse.” The sentiment highlights the collective effort behind her success.

A Leader Rooted in Community

Owens addressed her supporters on election night, acknowledging the significance of her win for generations of Syracusans who have long hoped for a leader who reflects their experiences and understands their struggles. “To the elders of this community, you who for decades looked to the future of a time when there would be a mayor that looks like you… I’m going to work hard to make you proud,” she promised.

Her journey to the mayor’s office is built on years of dedicated public service. Owens served eight years as deputy mayor under outgoing Mayor Ben Walsh, who was term-limited. She first arrived in Syracuse in 1981 from Geneva to study economics at Syracuse University, but a track scholarship and a work-study internship at the Dunbar Center led her to fall in love with the city and dedicate her career to its development.

A Career in Community Development

After graduating in 1985, Owens focused on community development and housing, working with prominent nonprofits like the Dunbar Center, PEACE Inc., Jubilee Homes, and Home Headquarters. This extensive background in addressing the city’s needs has prepared her for the challenges ahead.

Key Priorities for Syracuse

As mayor, Owens plans to prioritize several key areas. Her agenda includes improving city housing, expanding successful initiatives like Syracuse Surge, and fostering an inclusive economy that supports businesses owned by people of color and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. She also aims to address public safety reform and see through the city’s major I-81 reconstruction project.

Owens, who was born in Geneva but now proudly calls Syracuse her adopted home, declared during her victory speech, “Syracuse, you adopted me. I’m your daughter.” Her powerful message resonated with voters who saw her as a true representative of their city.