Chicago Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Legacy of a Harlem Trailblazer
Charles Rangel, a prominent Harlem congressman and founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, passed away on Monday at the age of 94. Born in 1930 in Harlem and known as the “Lion of Lenox Avenue,” Rangel first won his seat in the House of Representatives in 1971 by defeating Rev. Adam Clayton Powell. He went on to serve an impressive 23 terms, ultimately becoming the longest-serving congressman from New York. Rangel was also the last surviving member of Harlem’s influential “Gang of Four,” a group of Black political leaders that included David Dinkins, Basil Paterson, and Percy Sutton. He made history as the first Black chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, though he stepped down in 2010 due to an ethics investigation. Rangel retired in 2017, closing out a 46-year career in Congress.
A War Hero and Legislative Powerhouse
Before entering politics, Rangel joined the U.S. Army at 17 and served in the Korean War, where he earned the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for heroism. His legislative legacy includes significant contributions to major bills, such as the Affordable Care Act, and he was a fierce advocate for anti-poverty initiatives, urban renewal, and housing reform. He authored the Low Income Housing Tax Credit and consistently spoke out against the drug trade. Known for his deep convictions, Rangel once remarked that his proudest moments were guided more by moral values than political ambition. Following his passing, his protégé Keith Wright described him as a towering political figure whose impact was felt far beyond Harlem. Dr. Christina Greer of Fordham University noted that his death marks the end of a major era in both New York City and Black American politics, saying his influence on national and international affairs is still being understood.
