Washington DC —The National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) is saddened by the news of the passing of Congressman Elijah Cummings (MD), Chairman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, and extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Dr. Maya Rockeymoore, daughter Jennifer, and the rest of the Cummings family. We thank them for sharing this great servant leader with us.
Rep. Cummings was a stalwart on the battlefield for civil and social justice and was fearless in his pursuit of a better America for all of us. His care and compassion for the least of these was evident in all that he said and did. Rep. Cummings’ refrain “We’re better than this” should serve as a guidepost for all who believe in justice.
Born and raised in Baltimore, Rep. Cummings was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for Maryland’s 7th congressional district. The district includes just over half of Baltimore City, most of the majority-Black precincts of Baltimore County, as well as most of Howard County, MD. He previously served in the Maryland House of Delegates. He attended Howard University, where he received his bachelor’s degree in political science, and then went on to attend law school at the University of Maryland School of Law, receiving his J.D. in 1976. He practiced law for 19 years before first being elected to the House in the 1996 elections.
“My heart is heavy at the news of Rep. Elijah Cummings passing. This warrior’s voice has now been silenced, but he leaves a legacy of service that we all should emulate. Rest in peace and power Congressman,” said the Honorable Gilda Cobb-Hunter, South Carolina State Representative and President of NBCSL.
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