In Memoriam: Elijah Cummings

In reflecting on the passing of Representative Elijah Cummings, we at the National Academy of Social Insurance recall his stirring tribute to William (Bill) Spriggs, recipient of the 2016 Robert M. Ball Award for Outstanding Achievements in Social Insurance.

We invite you to watch the late Congressman’s remarks during that memorable evening in which the Ball Award was presented to Bill Spriggs. (Congressman Cummings was actually a surprise guest speaker, so this intimate 7-minute recording was captured by none other than Bill Spriggs, via his mobile device!)

Watch Elijah Cummings underscore the value of social insurance and the Academy’s role, as he pays tribute to Bill Spriggs. 

Elijah Cummings reminds us of the difference that one person like Bill Spriggs – and one organization like our Academy – can make. A few highlights from Elijah’s speech:

“Bill Spriggs lives what he preaches, and he preaches lifting up people to make their lives the best that they can be. And it’s only fitting that this organization honor him, because this organization is about doing that very thing.”

“I thank you for not being selfish. I thank you for not thinking that the world is limited, but thinking and knowing that the world is vast, and that you have a role to play in it. I thank you for not standing on the sidelines, even as you battle illness.”

“As you journey on, continue to fight the good fight. Continue to surround yourself with the types of people in this room…Look to your right and look to your left and think about this…our diversity is not our problem, our diversity is our promise.”

Please join us in keeping Maya Rockeymoore Cummings, a former member of the Academy’s Board of Directors, and the Cummings family in your thoughts during this difficult time.

Thank you.