Celebrating Saint Paul’s new Mayor Kaohly Her
Private Inauguration at the International Institute of Minnesota
The Institute had the honor of hosting Saint Paul Mayor Kaohly Her as she was sworn into office during a private inauguration on January 2.
Hundreds of her supporters, family, and local city leaders attended this historical event, making Her the first Hmong person, woman and refugee as mayor of Saint Paul.
Her mentioned why it was an intentional choice to celebrate this monumental moment at the Institute.
“As a person who came into this country as a refugee, the services we didn’t have when we came, the International Institute does that for all new refugees coming here. To me there was no other place to do this as the first refugee to be elected for mayor of Saint Paul. It’s so important for me to be here,” Her said.
Executive Director Jane Graupman said it was special to host such an important event at the Institute, saying it validates the critical work we do in serving the New American community.
During Her’s inauguration, Graupman highlighted the founding women who started our nonprofit 106 years ago. A milestone the Institute celebrated last month.
“They had an unwavering focus on welcoming and serving immigrants, especially women and children, and establishing them in leadership roles in our community. So here we are today, thrilled to be celebrating the election of Saint Paul’s first female immigrant Mayor,” Graupman said.
Her said her decision to run for mayor wasn’t about political ambition but rather seeing that she was needed in her community.
“The first thing I thought about was how many people were hurting, how many people thought their voices weren’t being heard, how many people felt we were moving ahead of the process and they were going to accept the status quo because there was nobody else stepping up, so I said I would step up,” said Her.
Her added as mayor, she will make sure every voice is heard.
Saint Paul Mayor Kaohly Her surrounded by family during her private inauguration.
About the International Institute of Minnesota
Founded in 1919, the International Institute of Minnesota offers New Americans quality services that support their journey to stability and success. The Institute’s comprehensive offerings include refugee resettlement, English education, workforce and leadership development, college preparation and immigration and citizenship assistance. The Institute is recognized as Minnesota’s leading charitable organization dedicated to helping New Americans rebuild their lives while pursuing their personal and professional goals.
How to Help
Contributions to the International Institute of Minnesota help us fund and provide services during times of uncertainty. The Institute is grateful for the community’s support in standing with New Americans so they can find safety, stability and success. Our mission will remain possible because of the community’s generosity.
