[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 162 (2016), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 12605-12606]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


  IN RECOGNITION OF 45 YEARS OF CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS LEADERSHIP

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 13, 2016

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the continued 
service over the last 45 years of the members of the Congressional 
Black Caucus. Since its inception, the Congressional Black Caucus has 
been committed to advancing justice, fairness, and equal protection 
under the law. I am proud to work with Caucus Chair G. K. Butterfield, 
original founding member Representative John Conyers, Jr., and over 
forty other members of Congress who diligently highlight inequalities 
and advocate for solutions to some of our nation's most significant 
problems.
  As an active member of the Caucus since its foundation, I am humbled 
to serve for a body that protects the most vulnerable, and serves as a 
mouthpiece for those who often find themselves without a voice. What 
began 45 years ago as a group of thirteen individuals who expressed 
their concerns to President Richard Nixon has grown nearly three times 
in size, and has become an institution in the fight for social, 
economic, educational, and judicial change.
  In many Congressional districts, including the 13th district of New 
York, our constituents face challenges of discrimination and, if not 
for

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the Congressional Black Caucus, might not have representation on issues 
of significance. While we have come a long way from the marches for 
Civil Rights in the 1960s, we still have many miles to go. Until we get 
there, I am confident that the Congressional Black Caucus will continue 
its dedication to resolve critical issues that affect minority 
communities.
  This week as we approach the annual Congressional Black Caucus 
Foundation's Legislative Conference, we celebrate the achievements and 
advocacy of the Congressional Black Caucus, but realize there is more 
to be done. As we look to the future, the Congressional Black Caucus 
will remain the conscience of Congress and continue to improve the 
lives for all.

                          ____________________