Indiana Black Expo announces death of founder James C. Cummings

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The founder of Indiana Black Expo has died at the age of 90.

The organization, which was established in 1970, made the announcement on their website Thursday.

James C. Cummings was “instrumental in the founding of Indiana Black Expo” and he “dedicated his life to service, activism, and shaping IBE into a statewide organization that provides year-round programs and initiatives across the state,” IBE said.

A full statement was released on behalf of the organization:

It is with a heavy heart that we at Indiana Black Expo mourn the passing of Indiana Black Expo founder James C. Cummings.  He was instrumental in the founding of Indiana Black Expo.  He led and served in various leadership capacities with IBE, including chairman of its board of directors.  Jim also traveled the state of Indiana to help build IBE’s membership, infrastructure, and supporter base.  He dedicated his life to service, activism, and shaping IBE into a statewide organization that provides year-round programs and initiatives across the state.  His legacy will continue on in the work that we do to serve as a voice and vehicle for the social and economic advancement of African Americans throughout the state of Indiana. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones at this time.

Indiana Black Expo

Cummings died in Carmel after suffering a heart attack, his daughter Claudia Cummings said.