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THE LORD MAYOR ' S MONTHLY
Lord Mayor of Liverpool Cllr Roy Gladden was sworn in as the city ’ s First Citizen in May . Here , he looks back at a busy few months which saw him at the centre of historic events as well as the countless community engagements which are such an important part of the Lord Mayor ’ s diary …
When I stood on the balcony of Liverpool Town Hall , I was filled with pride for our city and its extraordinary people .
As I reach the half-way point of my term as Lord Mayor , I ’ m reflecting on the earlier years of my life . I was a social worker who met with some of the most vulnerable people in our community during a notorious time of hardship for Liverpool .
I know a lot has changed since then , but standing on that grand balcony , I was also apprehensive about my new role and my responsibility towards the social welfare of Liverpool .
Along with the rest of the nation , we have experienced tremendous change within the last six months . During the Jubilee celebrations , the city came alive with street parties , where I was greeted by bunting , children playing and neighbours laughing . It felt like a real moment of unity .
Only a few months later , I delivered the proclamation that announced King Charles III as the new sovereign ; a solemn , truly historic moment that signified both an ending and a beginning .
But while my ceremonial duties have undoubtedly been a privilege , it has been a huge personal honour to witness some of the phenomenal work that has taken place in our communities over the last six months .
From attending the Big Help Fun Day that raised funds to feed the hungry , to honouring nurses at the Queen ’ s Award for staff at Alder Hey Children ’ s Hospital , I ’ m constantly reminded by how special the people of Liverpool are .
To be able to give a platform to the charities I have chosen to support whilst I am Lord Mayor has also been a wonderful aspect of this role . For organisations such as the South Liverpool Domestic Abuse Services and Options for Supported Living , it has been particularly important to me to amplify their voices across the city bringing attention to the lifesaving services they provide .
I was delighted to be able to continue in my role as Liverpool ’ s Armed Forces Champion . As a veteran myself , I am passionate about supporting forces personnel both serving and past through Liverpool Veterans HQ .
I have also had the pleasure of listening to the stories of several exceptional members of our community , as well as the joy of welcoming visitors to our glorious city .
An event honouring trans-pioneer April Ashley was extremely moving and memorable . To me , she absolutely defines the Liverpool spirit . Despite her enemies ’ best efforts to knock her down , she remained a real Liverpool girl , with that fierce spirit and hate of injustice that runs through Liverpool ’ s veins .
I also had the honour of meeting the daughter and granddaughter of the great Nelson Mandela , who had travelled to the city to see artwork which will form part of the city ’ s permanent memorial in Princes Park .
His family spoke about the man Mandela , rather than the celebrity - about how he believed in his mission even when others disagreed . How he had doubts . How he was human – just like the rest of us .
In safeguarding Liverpool ’ s international reputation as a city with many enviable assets , I have worked to support the healing of Liverpool ’ s tourist economy following the pandemic . My experience of being chair of the council ’ s Culture , Tourism and Visitor Economy Select Committee has proved to be particularly useful , and it has enhanced my ability to act as an ambassador of the city to national and international investors and visitors .
I was in France for the Champions League Final and I watched the events that night unfold with horror . When the authorities initially blamed fans it felt like history repeating itself , but I spoke on behalf of the city in several media interviews making it clear what I saw - fans travelling for a once-in-a-lifetime event , who should have been kept safe . Instead , they returned traumatised .
The past six months have been an absolute whirlwind . I had to quickly give up my evenings and weekends , but it ’ s a small price to pay as Liverpool ’ s First Citizen . I am deeply aware of the responsibility that comes with this position – and I vow to continue to do my city proud .
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