by Mick the Ram

The first black US Republican congresswoman who became a something of a trailblazer, breaking barriers and inspiring countless individuals, passed away peacefully at home in Utah from glioblastoma, a condition she was diagnosed with back in 2022.

The fast-moving, and aggressive form of a malignant brain tumour, had been expected to claim her life within 10-15 months of being spotted, but she bravely fought hard and more or less doubled that estimate.

She was the daughter of Haitian immigrants who arrived in the United States with little more than hope and determination, yet surpassed all expectations when elected to the US House of Representatives.

Family statement

Her family released a moving statement shortly after she slipped away: “With grateful hearts filled to overflowing for the profound influence of Mia on our lives, we want you to know that she passed away peacefully today. She was in her home surrounded by family.”

Continuing the paid tribute to a much loved individual, saying: “In the midst of a celebration of her life and an avalanche of happy memories, Mia quietly slipped the bands of mortality and, as her words and vision always did, soared heavenward.

“We are thankful for the many good wishes, prayers and condolences. We are taking some time as a family and will provide information about funeral services and a public celebration of her life in the days to come.”

Haitian hard working values

She was born Ludmya Bourdeau on December 6, 1975, in Brooklyn, New York, and her Haitian parents instilled in her the values of hard work, education, and faith, which became the cornerstones of her extraordinary journey.

Mia’s early years were marked by a passion for the arts, leading her to earn a degree in musical theatre from the University of Hartford’s Hartt School.

Her path then took a turn toward public service after she moved to Utah in 1998, where she joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and married Jason Love, an LDS missionary.

History maker

The African-American’s political career began in 2003 when she was elected to the Saratoga Springs City Council and by 2009, she had become the city’s mayor, making history as the first Black woman to hold the position in Utah.

Her tenure was characterized by fiscal responsibility and a commitment to community development, earning her widespread respect.

Distanced self from Donald Trump

In 2014, Mia shattered another glass ceiling by becoming the first Black Republican woman elected to the U.S. Congress, representing Utah’s 4th Congressional District, and serving two terms.

During her 2016 re-election campaign, Ms Love distanced herself from Donald Trump following the release of a 2005 recording in which Trump made lewd comments about women.

She chose to skip the Republican National Convention and also publicly declared she would not vote for Mr Trump, deciding instead to endorse Texas Senator Ted Cruz in the GOP primary, though he dropped out months later.

Narrow defeat

Her legislative focus included banking regulation, immigration reform, and combating pyramid schemes. She also joined the Congressional Black Caucus, demonstrating her ability to bridge ideological divides.

Ms Love’s re-election bid in 2018 ended in a slender defeat to her Democratic rival Ben McAdams and after that loss she transitioned to a role as a political commentator, continuing to influence public discussion.

Her insights were always eagerly sought-after, and she remained a vocal advocate for unity and integrity.

Stuck to principles

Mia’s time in Congress was not without challenges and she faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum, but remained unswerving in her principles.

Her ability to navigate the complexities of politics while staying true to her values earned her admiration from colleagues and constituents alike.

Courage in adversity

When in 2022, she received the diagnosis for the condition of glioblastoma, with a devastating prognosis attached, she refused to break and approached her illness with the same courage and grace that defined her entire life.

Tribute

Paying tribute to Ms Love, Utah Governor Spencer Cox wrote: “A true trailblazer and visionary leader, Mia inspired countless Utah’ns through her courage, grace, and unwavering belief in the American dream.

“Her legacy leaves a lasting, positive impact on our state. We will miss her deeply.”

Wish for togetherness

In her final months, she penned an open letter urging American citizens to rise above divisive rhetoric and work together to build a brighter future.

She was keen to make it clear that she was not saying goodbye, but was actually taking the opportunity to say “thank you and express my wish for you and the America I know”.

She is survived by her husband Jason, her daughters Alessa (Lincoln) and Abigale, her son Peyton and her parents.