In Lakewood, California, Cassandra Chase was officially named mayor during the city council’s annual reorganization meeting. With this appointment, she makes history as the first Black woman ever elected to serve as mayor of the city.
The announcement took place at the city’s annual Lakewood Celebrates gathering, where nearly 200 community members packed the council chambers and nearby overflow rooms to honor the outgoing mayor and welcome Chase into her new role. Her term as mayor will run through July 2026, marking another milestone in a journey that began when she was first elected to the council by voters in District 5 back in 2022.
In her remarks, Chase acknowledged the collective power behind her achievement.
“This moment is not mine alone. It belongs to every child who dares to dream of a just and joyful world…Thank you for trusting me with this responsibility…Thank you for believing in
what’s possible. Let’s move forward with open hearts, clear purpose and a shared commitment to building a Lakewood that reflects the best of who we are.”
Beyond her work in public service, Mayor Chase is a business strategist and social entrepreneur dedicated to empowering underserved communities. She founded Chase Consulting Group, which helps small businesses and nonprofits grow, and co-founded Read Lead, a nonprofit focused on literacy and leadership development for young people. She also serves as Coordinator of the Empowerment Congress, a civic engagement initiative grounded in accountability and community voice.
Cover photo: Cassandra Chase Becomes First Black Woman Elected Mayor of Lakewood, California / Photo Credit: Instagram / ms_cchase