A mayor speech is a public presentation by the leader of a city to share their vision for the future. These speeches are typically seven to nine minute persuasive presentations that highlight the challenges of a city and ask citizens for help in solving them. Mayors may also use their speeches to highlight local successes and efforts to improve the quality of life for their residents.
The term mayor is derived from the Old French maire and shares its etymology with the military rank of major. The first mayors were appointed, though since the rise of representative government, most are elected directly through a local-government election. They act as ceremonial figureheads for official functions, and carry out some of the authority of council between meetings with approval from the council. They are styled His or Her Worship and may wear a chain of office, mace and robes.
Mayors are increasingly using their speeches to address national issues that impact their cities. They are discussing civic engagement, efforts to promote financial stability for their residents and addressing the Trump administration policy on birthright citizenship.
Many mayors deliver a State of the City speech to outline the accomplishments of the past year and their goals for the future. These speeches are often held at a special event, such as a dinner or an open house. Some are delivered to the entire city, while others focus on specific groups of citizens. For example, a mayor might deliver a speech to the working class that focuses on improving neighborhood safety and promoting new parks.