The NAACP mourns the passing of Congressman Elijah E. Cummings, a
lifetime member of the NAACP, and a resounding civil rights icon that
prevailed in the face of adversity against all the odds.
"As a devoted statesman to Baltimore and the civil rights movement,
Rep. Cummings was among the most passionate and spirited members of
congress. He demanded justice on every front and never shied away from
standing up for the most vulnerable," said Derrick Johnson, President
and CEO, NAACP. "From his days in the Maryland General Assembly to his
key role in the Trump impeachment inquiry as chairman of the House
Oversight and Reform Committee, Congressman Cummings dedicated his life
to combating oppression in all its forms — and holding oppressors
accountable."
Congressman Cummings consistently brought attention to the plight of
African-Americans and oppressed populations throughout his 23-year
service in the U.S. House of Representatives. A native and proud member
of the Baltimore community, he consistently took action on policies and
legislation that improved his district.
Rep. Cummings became a nationally-recognized figure when he was
appointed the chair of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform
in 2019. One of the few African-Americans to lead such a prestigious
committee, Rep. Cummings often took swift action to call out inequity
and abuse of power when confronted.
"Among the many accolades he received throughout his storied life,
his legacy of championing issues, facing injustice head-on and speaking
truth to power will forever be a part of his greatest contributions,"
said Leon W. Russell, Chairman, NAACP Board of Directors.
We are deeply saddened by his passing but profoundly grateful for the
contributions he made in his lifetime. The NAACP extends our sincere
condolences to his family and sends prayers of comfort and strength for
the days to come.
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