The book features a foreword by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, highlighting its significance and relevance. It delves into contemporary political issues, offering insights and perspectives that resonate with current events. The author presents a compelling narrative that intertwines personal experiences with broader societal themes, aiming to inspire and provoke thought among readers. This work serves as both a reflection on past challenges and a call to action for future engagement in the political landscape.
Part memoir, part call to action, this young readers' edition dives into the inspiring life of the late U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings--from childhood through his time as chairman of the House Oversight Committee--and his tireless fight for justice. Elijah's story comes complete with a full-color insert of photographs from the congressman's life. Growing up as the child of former sharecroppers in a segregated Baltimore, Elijah Cummings saw firsthand how injustice could run rampant, even in a democracy that promises fairness and equality. But with a strong support system and fiery self-discipline, Elijah utilized the momentum of the civil rights movement to overcome the obstacles of poverty and racism to effect change at a time when our country so badly needed it. In We're Better Than This, readers will learn not only that we must be and do better than our oppressors but that it is our shared responsibility as a nation to keep our democracy intact because it is the only way to pursue freedom, justice, and equality for all.
With a foreword by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Baltimore Congressman Elijah Cummings was known for his assertion, “We’re better than this.” He voiced this sentiment amidst the turmoil in Baltimore over police treatment of citizens, in Congress when free speech was stifled, and when the President ignored the Constitution and resorted to bullying and racial division. Cummings maintained this belief until his passing in October. He emphasized the importance of calling out injustices and striving for a better self. In this work, Cummings shares the pivotal moments that shaped his commitment to holding President Donald Trump accountable. He intertwines the urgent drama of contemporary politics with defining stories from his upbringing as the son of sharecroppers in a racially and economically challenged South Baltimore neighborhood. Cummings was recognized for his ability to mediate conflicts in Congress and collaborate across party lines for justice. From his early political career, he demonstrated leadership and legal acumen, advocating for the underserved. This memoir serves as both a personal narrative and a call to action, revealing insights into House Democratic leadership and the unprecedented obstructionism from the President and GOP. Cummings’ concluding thoughts underscore the essential role of government oversight in fostering trust and advocate for maintaining optimism in challenging times.
