New York, NY — Harlem and the nation continue to mourn the loss of Congressman Charles B. Rangel, whose more than fifty years of public service left a profound mark on American politics, civil rights, and economic justice. Passing at age 94, Rangel’s death has inspired heartfelt tributes from leaders across communities.
Rev. Michael Blake offered a deeply personal family statement, expressing condolences on the passing of the “Honorable Brother Charles B. Rangel,” a national hero who served as a Korean War veteran, devoted husband, father, and political mentor—especially to members of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and 100 Black Men of America.
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“Brother Congressman Rangel’s loss leaves an emptiness and grief felt not only in Harlem but across the nation,” Blake said. “He was more than a public servant; he was a beloved son of his community, embodying strength, resilience, and unwavering love for the people he served. His voice gave power to the powerless, and his legacy will forever echo in the hearts of those who called him family, leader, mentor, and friend.”
Blake recalled a memorable moment in 2019 at the African American Day Parade in Harlem when Rangel warmly received a fraternal greeting and shared advice, humor, and insight with him and one of their Alpha neophytes. “Lenox Avenue has lost its lion, and our country has lost a Titan,” Blake reflected. “May the family find comfort knowing how deeply he was loved and how profoundly he will be missed. Being called home on Memorial Day allows us to salute his lifelong sacrifice once more at the highest level of excellence.”
New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie praised Rangel as “a fierce advocate for his community and an unrelenting voice for justice,” highlighting how he inspired generations of leaders and made transformative contributions.
Congressman Adriano Espaillat, who succeeded Rangel in representing New York’s 13th Congressional District, called him “a titan in American politics and a proud son of Harlem. He championed civil rights, equity, and justice for all. I am honored to carry forward the legacy he left behind and to serve the district he loved so dearly.”
Rangel’s remarkable achievements include being a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus in 1971, a decorated Korean War veteran, and the first African American to chair the influential House Ways and Means Committee. His legislative work, including authoring the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and other community revitalization efforts, transformed lives and neighborhoods.
A signature accomplishment was the creation of the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, a program fostering economic growth in underserved communities through public-private partnerships.
Londel Davis, Sr., owner of Harlem’s iconic Londel’s restaurant, shared a personal tribute:
“Today, Harlem mourns the loss of a true giant, Congressman Charles B. Rangel. More than a remarkable leader, Charlie was a mentor and a dear friend. Through his visionary creation of the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone, he made it possible for my restaurant, Londel’s, to receive its very first loan. This was a critical step in our journey. His wisdom, wit, and unwavering love for our community touched countless lives, including mine. I will miss him deeply.”
Charles Rangel’s legacy is defined not only by his legislative accomplishments but also by the personal connections and opportunities he created. His leadership—marked by dignity, humor, and determination—sets a lasting standard for public service that will inspire generations to come.
As New York reflects on his life and impact, Rangel’s imprint remains woven into Harlem’s very fabric—a neighborhood and people he served with relentless devotion.
