HISTORY: Kniech, Johnson first out councilwoman, clerk take oaths of office

Just when Robin Kniech thought the emotions of being Denver’s first out city council member had come and gone, she was sworn into office at 11 a.m. today.

“I’m deeply honored,” she said in between greeting supporters — and signing autographs — afterward. “The emotions had been settling in, but …” she laughed.

Kniech was one of 13 council members to take the oath of office along with Denver’s new mayor and auditor.

Debra Johnson, also an out lesbian, was sworn in as well, as Denver’s newest clerk and recorder.

She said she’s looking forward to rolling up her sleeves and getting to work.

Neither Kniech nor Johnson ran on a gay agenda. When asked, both argued they ran because they wanted to make the city better, but were happy to — as most out elected officials do — be positive role models to LGBT youth and be ambassadors to mainstream society.

The swearing in ceremony was held at the Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre at the Denver Performing Arts Complex.

Kniech’s first council meeting is today at 5 p.m. at the City and County Building.

“It’s a short, but very important agenda,” she said.