(Molly Bruns, Headline USA) Radical Black Lives Matter activist Indira Sheumaker, who won a seat on the Des Moines city council in March, recently resigned from her position after neglecting her seat for six months.
Sheumaker did not attend any city council meetings or workshops since March 6, 2023 and refused to account for her absence, despite continuing to draw a salary and health benefits from the position, according to the Post Millennial.
Sheumaker, also an organizer for the Black Liberation Movement, ran on a platform that advocated for “defunding the police,” winning in an upset victory against the incumbent in 2021.
Randy Sheumaker, her father, delivered his daughter’s resignation letter to the city on Aug. 31.
Her father reported that she was hospitalized in April, but did not elaborate on her situation.
The former councilwoman previously stated that she suffered from clinical anxiety and depression, which COVID lockdowns had exacerbated.
A statement from Sheumaker’s office made it clear that mental health was her reason for leaving the council but did not lend any insight to her situation.
She did take time to call out BIPOC Mental Health Awareness month.
“As a [b]lack, queer, feminine individual I and others like me face unique challenges relating to mental health that are exacerbated by the social conditions we live under,” her statement read. “I hope my openness can bring attention to these issues and spark understanding on a larger scale.”
She signed off wishing “all power to the people.”
Sheumaker also took a leave of absence to focus on her mental health in 2022.
A release from the City of Des Moines announced Sheumaker’s departure and requested that the populous wait patiently while the mayor and city council consider next steps.
BREAKING: Indira Sheumaker has officially resigned from Des Moines City Council.
Her father, Randy Sheumaker, hand delivered her letter of resignation. pic.twitter.com/Hd5Pya27qC
— Chenue Her (@ChenueHer) September 6, 2023
“We wish Ms. Sheumaker the best and appreciate Ms. Sheumaker’s time on the council,” said Mayor Frank Cownie.
Iowa’s next general election is on Nov. 7.
