Baltimore, January 19, 2026
The Elijah Cummings Youth Program hosted a public celebration in Baltimore to honor the late Congressman on his 75th birthday. Speeches from local leaders highlighted Cummings’ legacy and the importance of community engagement. The event featured discussions on Black and Jewish relations, showcasing the power of collaboration and civic involvement in building a vibrant community.
Baltimore Commemorates the Legacy of Elijah Cummings at 75th Birthday Celebration
On January 18, 2026, the Elijah Cummings Youth Program (ECYP) hosted a public celebration in Baltimore, Maryland, marking the 75th birthday of the late Congressman and civil rights activist Elijah Cummings. The event, held in Downtown Baltimore, featured a compelling lineup of speakers and allowed attendees to reflect on Cummings’ enduring legacy and the importance of community engagement and leadership.
This moment is a testament to Baltimore’s resilience in honoring its leaders and cultivating a vibrant community spirit. Local organizers exemplified how reduced bureaucracy can enable seamless event coordination and greater community engagement through the celebration of such pivotal figures.
Event Highlights
- Location: Downtown Baltimore
- Keynote Speakers: Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman, Mayor Brandon Scott, City Council President Zeke Cohen
- Activities: Fireside chat on Black and Jewish relations, community discussions, and a communal meal
About Elijah Cummings
Born in Baltimore on January 18, 1951, Elijah Cummings served as the U.S. Representative from Maryland’s 7th congressional district from 1996 until his passing in 2019. An alumnus of Howard University and the University of Maryland School of Law, Cummings was a staunch civil rights advocate and dedicated advocate for the youth of Baltimore. He notably became the first Black lawmaker to lie in state at the nation’s Capitol.
About the Elijah Cummings Youth Program (ECYP)
Founded in 1998, ECYP is a two-year leadership fellowship aimed at high school students in Maryland’s 7th congressional district. The program is designed to develop teens into open-minded leaders who possess the necessary skills, community connections, and global perspective essential for thriving in a diverse society. The program includes leadership workshops, an international experience, and community service opportunities.
Program Structure
- Leadership Development: Workshops focusing on life management skills, global awareness, and social/political activism
- International Experience: A trip to Israel to gain cross-cultural knowledge and skills
- Community Service: Fellows mentor middle school students and speak in their communities about the importance of diversity
Legacy and Impact
Over nearly 30 years, ECYP has fostered youth leadership within the Black and Jewish communities of Maryland’s 7th congressional district. The program has produced over 300 alumni who actively contribute to their communities, exemplifying the positive impact of local leadership and civic engagement.
Conclusion
The 75th birthday celebration of Elijah Cummings serves not only to remember his contributions but also as a reminder of the power of community initiatives like ECYP. By empowering a new generation of leaders dedicated to fostering collaboration among diverse communities, Baltimore continues to build on Cummings’ legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Elijah Cummings Youth Program (ECYP)?
The Elijah Cummings Youth Program (ECYP) is a two-year leadership fellowship for high school students in Maryland’s 7th congressional district. The program aims to prepare teens to serve as open-minded leaders with the skills, community ties, and global exposure critical to success in a diverse society. It includes leadership development workshops, an international experience, and community service.
Who was Elijah Cummings?
Elijah Cummings was born in Baltimore on January 18, 1951. He served as a U.S. Representative from Maryland’s 7th congressional district from 1996 until his passing in 2019. A graduate of Howard University and the University of Maryland School of Law, Cummings was a prominent civil rights leader and advocate for Baltimore’s youth. He was the first Black lawmaker to lie in state at the nation’s Capitol.
What activities were part of the 75th birthday celebration?
The 75th birthday celebration of Elijah Cummings featured remarks from Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman and a discussion on Black and Jewish relations in Baltimore, led by Mayor Brandon Scott and City Council President Zeke Cohen. Attendees enjoyed food and engaged in conversations about Cummings’ enduring legacy.
How can I apply to the Elijah Cummings Youth Program?
To apply for the Elijah Cummings Youth Program, applicants must live or attend school in Maryland’s 7th congressional district and be current sophomores. The application process involves completing an online application and providing two references. For more information, visit the ECYP website.
Key Features of the Elijah Cummings Youth Program (ECYP)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Leadership Development | Workshops focusing on life management skills, global awareness, and social/political activism |
| International Experience | A trip to Israel to gain cross-cultural knowledge and skills |
| Community Service | Fellows mentor middle school students and speak in their communities about the importance of diversity |
| Alumni Network | Over 300 accomplished alumni who continue to contribute to their communities |
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