Boston scenes: 2021 in pictures

2021 in Boston was a year of historic political firsts — with four women running for mayor and a new crop of Black, Latino and Asian politicians who have redrawn the political landscape in the city. Clockwise from top left: Mayoral candidates Annissa Essaibi George, Kim Janey, Andrea Campbell and Michelle Wu. BANNER PHOTOS

Mayor Michelle Wu addresses reporters after her victory in the September preliminary. BANNER PHOTO

Acting Mayor Kim Janey announces her candidacy in front of the Faces of Dudley mural in Nubian Square. BANNER PHOTO

At-large Councilor Annissa Essaibi George greets voters in Nubian Square. BANNER PHOTO

State Rep. Jon Santiago on the campaign trail. BANNER PHOTO

Former Chief of Economic Development John Barros addresses supporters. BANNER PHOTO

City Council candidates Julia Mejia, Ruthzee Louijeune and Evando Carvalho sign a pledge to support the Fair Share Amendment. BANNER PHOTO

Demonstrators calling for the abolition of Boston’s police department march along Columbus Avenue in the South End. BANNER PHOTO

Demonstrators in Nubian Square march against police violence on Martin Luther King Day. BANNER PHOTO

U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley addresses a crowd gathered before the start of the Roxbury Unity Parade. BANNER PHOTO

Percussionists gather during the Roxbury Unity Parade. BANNER PHOTO

Masqueraders dance in the Caribbean Carnival, which returned to Franklin Park this year. PHOTO: AVERY BLEICHFELD

The crowd enjoying the music at Playhouse in the Park, which returned to Franklin Park after pandemic shutdowns. PHOTO: COURTESY OF FRANKLIN PARK COALITION

Photographer London Parker-McWhorter and artist Ekua Holmes during the unveiling of murals the pair created in Grove Hall. BANNER PHOTO