On The Loss of Congressman Elijah Cummings By Purple Walrus Press Contributor and Flint Water Crisis Activist Melissa Mays of Flint.

Today has been one of those days where I fought hard to stay busy. I didn't want to think about the massive loss Flint, Baltimore, the Social Justice world and entire country feels today with the passing of Congressman Elijah Cummings. This man is a hero to so many and I personally looked up to him for guidance and strength to keep speaking the truth. Even though we aren't in his district and he didn't have to, he pushed SO HARD to subpoena Rick Snyder and the Emergency Managers to get the truth out about the Flint Water Crisis. He spoke about courage, human decency and justice. His actions and words aligned. He gave me some of the best advice I will NEVER forget. I will also never forget the words he spoke when he presented me the Spirit of Millie award. Or him letting Snyder have it. Or just telling us to stay strong in Flint because we are not alone. But alone is how I felt for a bit today. I felt sadness, loss and fear for Flint's future as we lost such a strong fighter in our corner. But I reminded myself that I am surrounded by some of the toughest, most resilient people in the world: Flint residents. And that Congressman Cummings showed me that you never stop fighting and the strength of the individual is contagious. He also embodied such strength paired with immeasurable kindness and care to the innocent. I cried but feel comforted in knowing that we will not stop fighting. We aren't alone. And it's time to punch back even harder. For ourselves and for Rep Cummings, who would never want us to stop the fight for Justice for Flint and all the cities like us. Thank you for your service to mankind, Congressman Cummings. Rest in Peace, sir.