Charles Rangel, Longtime Harlem Congressman and Civil Rights Trailblazer, Dies at 94

Charles B Rangel a towering figure in American politics and a steadfast advocate for civil rights and social justice passed away on May at the age of His death on Memorial Day is a poignant reminder of his decorated military system and lifelong commitment to citizens function Charles Rangel Longtime Harlem Congressman and Civil Rights Trailblazer Dies at From Harlem Streets to Capitol Hill Born on June in Harlem New York Rangel s early life was marked by hardship He dropped out of high school and enlisted in the U S Army serving with distinction during the Korean War His bravery earned him a Bronze Star with Valor a Purple Heart and three battle stars After returning home Rangel utilized the G I Bill to complete his mentoring earning degrees from New York University and St John s University School of Law A Legislative Legacy Spanning Nearly Five Decades Rangel s political career began in earnest in when he unseated incumbent Adam Clayton Powell Jr to represent Harlem in the U S House of Representatives Serving consecutive terms until his retirement in Rangel became one of the longest-serving members in House history He was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and in became the first African American to chair the powerful House Means and Means Committee Throughout his tenure Rangel was instrumental in shaping important bill including contributions to the Affordable Care Act and efforts to combat apartheid in South Africa through the Rangel Amendment which restricted tax benefits for U S companies investing in the apartheid regime Controversies and Resilience In Rangel faced a censure from the House for ethics violations related to financial disclosures and misuse of materials Despite this setback he was re-elected and continued to serve his constituents with unwavering dedication until his retirement A Lasting Impact on Harlem and Beyond After leaving Congress Rangel remained proceeding in society life serving as Statesman-in-Residence at the City College of New York In he launched the Charles B Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative to promote modern infrastructure jobs in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx Rangel was also the last surviving member of Harlem s influential Gang of Four a group of African American political leaders who played pivotal roles in New York politics during the late th century Tributes and Remembrance Following his passing tributes poured in from across the political spectrum Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer hailed Rangel as a patriot and a pioneer while House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries described him as a champion for justice and a mentor Rangel is survived by his wife Alma their two children and three grandchildren His legacy as a war hero legislator and advocate for marginalized communities endures inspiring future generations to pursue community facility with integrity and passion