Mayor Amarjeet Sohi, new council sworn in at Edmonton City Hall

Edmonton's new council was sworn in at a city hall ceremony Tuesday afternoon, with the new mayor making his 'Edmonton for all' election slogan the theme of his inaugural speech.

Edmonton's new council was sworn in at a city hall ceremony Tuesday afternoon, with the new mayor making his "Edmonton for all" election slogan the theme of his inaugural speech.

Amarjeet Sohi started his address with a Treaty 6 land acknowledgement before applauding Edmontonians for electing what is widely considered the most diverse council in the city's history.

"Today, I am moved. Edmonton, look at who you have elected. A phenomenal, diverse group of people including eight women," Sohi said.

"This is what you have already accomplished by choosing an Edmonton for all of us. Be proud of what you have done. Look, this is Edmonton."

Sohi thanked Don Iveson for his eight years as mayor and said they bonded over the "city we both love."

The mayor also said he appreciated the work of the previous council.

Sohi acknowledged the challenging times he faces, saying he is grieving the 1,300 Edmontonians that have died during the COVID-19 pandemic.