America Mourns Parren J. Mitchell
May 28, 2007
Press Release
Washington, D.C. — startwidainctext Congressman Elijah Cummings [MD-07] joined the rest of America in mourning the passing of former Congressman Parren J. Mitchell. The Congressman released the following statement:
"Throughout his life, Congressman Mitchell dedicated himself to opening the doors to opportunity for all Americans," Congressman Cummings declared. "He was a true servant leader, never concerning himself about fame or fortune but, rather, devoting himself entirely to uplifting the people he represented.
Born on April 29, 1922, in Baltimore, Congressman Mitchell was a graduate of Morgan State College (now Morgan State University), and earned a Master's degree from the University of Maryland. Even before his election to the U.S. House of Representatives, he served in the U.S. military during World War II, where he was wounded and received the Purple Heart.
Congressman Mitchell also served as the Executive Director of the Maryland Human Relations Commission and was the Director of the Baltimore Community Action Agency. Later, at his alma mater Morgan State University, he became a sociology professor and director of their Urban Studies Institute. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1971.
In December of 2006, legislation sponsored by Congressman Cummings that named the U.S. Post Office at 6101 Liberty Road in Baltimore after Parren J. Mitchell became law - an honor that was universally declared as well deserved.
"As the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee, Congressman Mitchell helped open business opportunities to those who previously had been excluded," Congressman Cummings observed. "Through his work in the Congressional Black Caucus, he helped create the organization that has enabled African American Members of Congress to speak with a united voice for justice and for equality throughout our nation."
In response to his lifetime of dedication to the downtrodden of this nation, Congressman Parren J. Mitchell earned the lasting admiration and affection of millions.
"It was not unusual for Congressman Mitchell to pick up the telephone and give advice," Congressman Cummings recalled. "He was a teacher who touched my life and the lives of so many others."
"Parren Mitchell was beloved by all who were privileged to know him," Congressman Cummings declared. "He earned the trust of people throughout the country and the world because he was constantly building bridges for others to cross, while tearing down the walls that had excluded them."
"My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Their loss is our loss as well."
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