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Ethiopian Migrant Appointed as New Councilmember in Aurora

IN AURORA| The new councilmen Amsalu Kassaw and the new mayor pro tempore, Steve Sundberg. (Picture/Facebook)

THE CITY COUNCIL ALSO APPOINTED CURRENT COUNCILMEMBER STEVE SUNDBERG AS THE NEW MAYOR PRO TEMPORE.

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

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In a session held on Monday, December 16, the Aurora City Council appointed Ethiopian community leader Amsalu Kassaw to fill the vacant at-large seat. Kassaw, known for his work as a community organizer and human rights advocate, secured six votes in favor and four against. He currently serves as the public relations director for the Ethiopian American Civic Council. The Ethiopian community is the second-largest minority group in Aurora after the Mexican community.

Kassaw also works as a lieutenant at Aurora’s Immigration Processing Center, operated by GEO Group. “I am very grateful, honored, and deeply touched. Now I have even more civic and moral duties to contribute to the city and community that I love,” Kassaw expressed after his appointment, referring to the significance of this moment for the Ethiopian community in Aurora.

Selection Method

For the selection of the new councilmember, the majority of the council opted for a motion asking directly whether Kassaw’s appointment would be accepted or not. This procedure surprised many, as there were three candidates vying for the position. Alongside Kassaw, Danielle Lammon and Jonathan McMillan were also considered. Both Lammon and McMillan had outperformed Kassaw in a previous public interview before the council.

Lammon stood out for her extensive knowledge of Aurora’s council matters. She has volunteered on several city working committees, which, according to some councilmembers, made her the most qualified candidate for the position. “By choosing this method, we’re left with the impression that the most competent person wasn’t selected, and race was used as an excuse,” said Ana Otaola, a resident present at the session.

Debate

The motion to appoint Kassaw was introduced by Councilmember Stephanie Hancock, who emphasized the opportunity to send a “clear message” about inclusion and diversity in Aurora. “Kassaw has demonstrated leadership not only in this country but also in his native Ethiopia,” Hancock stated.

Councilmember Steve Sundberg praised the Ethiopian community, calling it “a tremendous group that loves this city.” Other councilmembers, including Danielle Jurinsky, Angela Larson, and Mayor Mike Coffman, publicly supported Kassaw, highlighting his leadership and commitment. Councilmember Rubén Medina also voted in favor of Kassaw.

However, the process was not without debate. Councilmembers Curtis Gardner and Francoise Bergan, who voted against Hancock’s proposal, expressed their support for Lammon, arguing that she had more experience for the role. Both Gardner and Bergan rejected any suggestions of racism influencing their decision.

Mayor Pro Tempore

In addition to Kassaw’s appointment, the council selected Councilmember Steve Sundberg as the new mayor pro tempore. Sundberg’s selection occurred after Councilmember Gardner withdrew his candidacy.

Sundberg, who represents Ward II, assumed office on December 6, 2021, after winning the general election on November 2, 2021. His current term ends in 2025. Sundberg holds a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University and a graduate degree from the University of Phoenix.

In his role as mayor pro tempore, Sundberg will preside over council meetings in the absence of Mayor Coffman. Sundberg, also a small business owner and operator, has focused his leadership on supporting local businesses and addressing the concerns of his constituents.