WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) released the following statement:
“It is with profound sadness to hear of the passing of my friend and mentor, the Honorable Congressman Charles Rangel.
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“Charles was a decorated war hero, and a good and faithful public servant for over 40 years to the people of this nation and New York City. During his time in Congress, he founded the Congressional Black Caucus and was the first Black man to chair the Ways and Means Committee, he sat on the Judiciary Committee during the historic impeachment hearings of President Nixon, and he helped pull our nation out of the 2008 recession through his influential leadership role in the House.
“Mr. Rangel was a true New Yorker and a son of Harlem, who earned his recognition as ‘the Lion of Lenox Ave.’ As Dean of New York’s U.S. House delegation, he understood the diversity of his city and advocated for the rights of Haitian migrants, for strengthening U.S. and Cuban relations, and for fostering economic development and opportunity for the people of his city. He fought to break down racial barriers, for equality, and against injustice.
“We have lost a giant who embodied a lifetime of service. I pray that he is reunited with his beloved wife, Alma. May he rest in peace and power.”
