City employees will be hired and promoted because of their abilities - without outside interference.

I pledge tonight to be Mayor for all of the people of this city - for one Chicago.

In the days and months I spent walking through the various communities of this city, I found that Chicago did not work for everyone, however.

Tonight - by taking this solemn oath - I am no longer a private citizen but the Mayor of the City of Chicago.

Chicago’s neighborhoods have always been the city’s greatest strength.

For my part, I plan to work out a fair and adequate redistribution of city services to all city neighborhoods.

I am here before you tonight to dedicate this administration to bringing a new renaissance of neighborhood life and community spirit, a renewal of confidence in the future of our city and a revival of opportunity for all Chicago.

But I am committed to keeping this city a strong and viable center for commerce and industry, for continuing to make it a place of opportunity for its citizens.