Jane Byrne Quotes

The people must know that from this day on, we want their opinions.

When there were fears about the future of this nation’s older cities… when a few of the cities teetered on the brink of bankruptcy, all eyes were focused on Chicago for contrast.

The cooperation of government at its different levels is important and can only be achieved as long as the people of Chicago are directly involved in our efforts and supportive of our goals.

Our universities and museums are respected around the country.

The people of Chicago are a proud people – and for good reason.

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.

But always I was a private citizen whose activities in government or political party were appointive.

As I visited the various neighborhoods in the campaign, I learned fast that it’s a mistake to think that all of the wisdom and possible solutions to our problems are available only in this building.

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.

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

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

I am a Democrat. I have been one all of my life.

If we are to succeed, we must recognize that the community redevelopment is not solely the rehabilitation of housing, or putting a mall in the business strips.

But as important as the job to be done by government in the neighborhoods, the people must also be involved.

If all of us would require the same level of performance from ourselves as we expect from government, this city will forever be the city that works.

The nation can no longer afford to continue policies that hasten the flight of persons to the distant suburbs.

I have three sisters, all of whom lead very normal lives.

The Chicago Symphony is considered the greatest orchestra in the world.

I accept that responsibility and ask only that I be judged by my performance as its chief executive.

The credit for much of this rightly belongs to the late Mayor Daley who forged a coalition of business and labor that kept Chicago always moving ahead.

In the housing projects, people talked of ways to reduce crime, relieve overcrowding, and they were good ideas that we plan to study, and possibly implement.

We must care. We must all care. And while I am working, while the governments is working, so must the people also work.

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

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