Historic swearing-in at Brooklyn venue celebrates emergency services leadership and gender equity
Mayor Zohran Mamdani presided over the ceremonial swearing-in of Lillian Bonsignore as the 37th Fire Commissioner of the Fire Department of New York at a Brooklyn venue, celebrating the historic appointment of the first openly LGBTQ commissioner. The ceremony included remarks from Mamdani, city officials, fire department leadership, and community members honoring Bonsignore’s career and representing a transformational moment for the department.
Ceremony Details and Significance
The swearing-in ceremony provided formal public recognition of Bonsignore’s appointment and leadership. The choice of Brooklyn venue represented accessibility and connection to the borough where much of the FDNY operates. Attendees included city officials, firefighters, EMS workers, LGBTQ community leaders, and representatives of civil service organizations. The atmosphere reflected celebration of progress while acknowledging ongoing challenges in emergency services.
Remarks and Commitments
Mayor Mamdani used the occasion to emphasize his administration’s commitment to worker equity, diversity in emergency services, and recognition of EMS contributions. He highlighted the connection between appointment of EMS veterans to leadership and the administration’s broader labor justice agenda. Remarks underscored that the mayor and Bonsignore would work together on compensation equity and workforce development.
FDNY Workforce Reactions
The swearing-in received mixed reactions within the fire department. Many EMS workers celebrated the appointment as validation of their contributions and hope for improved treatment. Some firefighters and traditionalists expressed concerns about changes to fire department culture. Fire department leadership broadly expressed commitment to supporting the new commissioner and ensuring smooth transition.
Symbol of Change
The ceremony symbolized more than an individual appointment; it represented the administration’s commitment to diversity, equity, and worker protections. The public recognition of an LGBTQ emergency services leader communicated that the city honors people of all backgrounds serving in public service. The event provided visibility that may encourage other LGBTQ people to pursue emergency services careers. Learn more from National Fire Protection Association and National Association of EMS Managers resources.
