Black People Magic pays tribute today to a legendary legislator and advocate for Black people on Capitol Hill, Charles Rangel, who passed away Monday at 94, just a few weeks before what would have been his 95th birthday on June 11th.
Congressman Rangel was in the House of Representatives as a Democrat for a remarkable 46 years, serving New York City’s 13th Congressional District, that includes Harlem, for 23 terms.
Before his first election in 1970, he was a Korean War veteran who earned a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for his heroism. He later made history as the first Black chair of the influential Ways and Means Committee, was the dean of the New York Congressional Delegation and a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus.
He was also one of what was known as Harlem’s “Gang of Four” coalition that also included former New York City Mayor David Dinkins… they were known as the first group from the neighborhood to break down race and class barriers, forging paths for others to follow.
& Remember to always celebrate your magic! xo