Could 27, 2025
Rangel supported the upliftment of Harlem all through his profession whereas nonetheless selling worldwide causes.
Former U.S. Consultant and world chief Charles B. Rangel has handed away on the age of 94.
Born in Harlem in 1930 to a Puerto Rican father and a Black American mom, Rangel grew to become referred to as a long-time U.S. congressman. He served on this function for 23 phrases, marking 46 years as a consultant of New York’s thirteenth congressional district. Throughout his tenure, the “Lion of Lenox Avenue” sponsored 40 payments whereas changing into the primary Black and Puerto Rican chair of the Home’s Methods and Means Committee. He additionally served as a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus.
Earlier than his appointment to Congress in 1970, Rangel served within the navy. The embellished warfare hero obtained a Purple Coronary heart and Bronze Star for his service throughout the Korean Struggle. His household introduced the information of his passing on Memorial Day. They famous his lifelong profession of serving others and championing social causes.
“A towering determine in American politics and a champion for justice, fairness, and alternative, Congressman Rangel devoted over 4 many years of his life to public service,” the Rangel household mentioned in an announcement, as reported by CBS Information.
“All through his profession, Congressman Rangel fought tirelessly for reasonably priced housing, city revitalization, honest tax insurance policies, and equal alternatives for all Individuals.”
Rangel’s advocacy began in Harlem. As a part of Harlem’s proclaimed “Gang of 4” coalition, alongside Basil Patterson, Percy Sutton, Herman “Denny” Farrell, and former Mayor David Dinkins, he helped dismantle racial and sophistication boundaries to uplift the varied communities inside the neighborhood. He additionally performed a number one function within the creation of the Higher Manhattan Empowerment Zone Growth Company to spice up the financial presence of Harlem.
As a world voice for change, Rangel performed a key function in growing insurance policies that benefited worldwide causes. His “Rangel Modification” in 1987 denied tax credit to U.S. firms invested in South Africa throughout apartheid. His work additionally boosted U.S. commerce relations, constructing alternatives with growing nations within the Caribbean and Africa.
Following his retirement in 1971, Rangel remained dedicated to serving his hometown whereas persevering with to amplify his world management. In 2002, he established the Charles B. Rangel Worldwide Affairs program to present alternatives and assets for college kids inquisitive about pursuing a profession in overseas service.
“There are lots of who will try to imitate, however the nice Charlie Rangel won’t ever be replicated,” Home Minority Chief Hakeem Jeffries mentioned in an announcement. “Whether or not in the USA Military, the federal courtroom, the halls of Congress or the streets of Harlem, Congressman Rangel led a lifetime of public service that’s second to none. The prayers of a grateful nation are together with his household and the legions who cherished this iconic chief. Could Charles B. Rangel without end relaxation in Energy.”
The Charles B. Rangel Middle for Public Service resides on the Metropolis School of New York. Now, the middle honors the legacy of a person dedicated to a lifetime of civic responsibility. He’s survived by his spouse, Alma, their two youngsters, and three grandchildren.
When requested how he want to be remembered, Rangel’s assertion mirrored his unshakable would possibly and resilience.
“If I’m gone, fairly frankly, I don’t give a rattling.”
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