The Child Welfare League of America is saddened by the loss of a great leader with the passing of Congressman Elijah Cummings on Thursday morning, October 17, 2019.
Congressman Cummings represented Maryland’s seventh congressional district since winning an election in 1996. He was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. He received a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Howard University and then graduated from the University of Maryland’s School of Law.
As a champion for children and families, Congressman Cummings spoke at CWLA’s Mid-Atlantic Conference in Baltimore, Maryland. CWLA’s President and CEO, Christine James-Brown, stated, “…in a highly partisan era, he was always respected by both sides and always a voice for the voiceless.”

Congressman Cummings, in his most recent role, served as the chairman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform. As the committee’s Chairman, Congressman Cummings pushed for better practices and policies for children who are immigrants at the southern border. Congressman Cummings will be remembered for his passionate servant leadership and his ability to uplift and empower all individuals and his tirelessly fight for civil rights, democracy, and equality. For a copy of CWLA statement, click here.