Senate Resolution No. 1099
BY: Senator CLEARE
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.
