K 599: Mourning the death of former U.S. Representative Charles B. Rangel, distinguished public servant, statesman, and beloved member of the Harlem community

 Assembly Resolution No. 599 BY: M. of A. Wright MOURNING the death of former U.S. Representative Charles B. Rangel, distinguished public servant, statesman, and beloved member of the Harlem community WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this Legislative Body, representing the people of the State of New York, is moved this day to pay tribute to an eminent man of indomitable faith and dedication whose public service and countless accomplishments will forever stand as a paradigm and inspiration for others; and WHEREAS, Charles B. Rangel, a trailblazing former New York Congressman, decorated war veteran, founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, and a tireless advocate for social justice, economic equity, and civil rights, died on Monday, May 26, 2025, at the age of 94; and WHEREAS, Born on June 11, 1930, in Harlem, New York, Charles B. Rangel rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential and respected legislators in American history; and WHEREAS, A Korean War veteran who earned a Purple Heart and Bronze Star with Valor, Charles B. Rangel brought the same courage and commitment to the halls of Congress, representing New York's 13th Congressional District from 1971 until his retirement in 2017; and WHEREAS, Throughout his 46 years of congressional service, Charles B. Rangel championed landmark legislation including the Empowerment Zones Act and played a key role in reforming the tax code, expanding health care, and advancing equal rights; and WHEREAS, As Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Charles B. Rangel was the first African American to hold this powerful position, reflecting both his legislative acumen and enduring dedication to the people of New York and the Nation; and WHEREAS, Following his retirement from Congress, Charles B. Rangel continued his lifelong mission of public service through his work at the City College of New York, where he served as Statesman-in-Residence and launched the Charles B. Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative to boost infrastructure job opportunities in areas of Manhattan and the Bronx that he called home for nearly a century; and WHEREAS, Often referred to as the "Lion of Lenox Avenue," Charles B. Rangel was not only a legislator, but a moral voice and an unwavering advocate for Harlem, fiercely devoted to uplifting his community through education, opportunity, and representation; and WHEREAS, Predeceased by his beloved wife Alma, Charles B. Rangel is survived by his son, Steven Rangel (Adelina); his daughter, Alicia Rangel Haughton (Howard); three grandsons, Howard R. Haughton, Joshua R. Haughton and Charles R. Haughton; a host of family and friends, as well as a grateful city, state, and nation who continue to benefit from his legacy; and WHEREAS, Every citizen in the State of New York-and indeed the nation-has, in some meaningful way, been impacted by the deep dedication, fearless leadership, and unwavering commitment that Charles B. Rangel brought to his work as a legislator, public servant, and champion for justice; a loyal advocate, trusted mentor, and tireless voice for the voiceless, he will be profoundly missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the death of Charles B. Rangel, distinguished public servant and trailblazer, whose enduring contributions to New York State and the United States shall never be forgotten; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Charles B. Rangel.