Charlie Rangel was a trailblazer in Congress, a titan of the civil rights movement and a personal mentor to me.
When I was first sworn in, I immediately sought out his expertise and his mentorship. He was an integral piece in shifting the national consciousness to view the countries in Africa as partners, not aid projects. He was integral to the passage of the first African Growth and Opportunity Act — a monumental piece of landmark legislation that changed our nation’s relationship with Africa forever. In the years following he provided close counsel on the successful reauthorization of AGOA, engaging the African diaspora throughout the country, aid to combat famine and more throughout my time in Congress.
A decorated war hero, Congressman Rangel brought the same courage he showed on duty to the halls of Congress—breaking barriers as the first Black member of the House Ways and Means Committee and never backing down from a fight for justice, equity and economic opportunity. I had the great honor of serving alongside Congressman Rangel in the Congressional Black Caucus, of which he was a founding member.
He leaves a legacy of accomplishments and an approach that his colleagues will remember fondly – his warmth, sharp wit, and unwavering commitment to lifting up others.
Charlie Rangel was a giant in Congress, and I will always be grateful for his guidance, friendship, and leadership. My heart is with his family and the Harlem community he loved and served so well.