National Urban League Mourns the Passing of Civil Rights Champion Rangel
NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE MOURNS PASSING OF CIVIL RIGHTS CHAMPION RANGEL
NEW YORK (May 26, 2025) — National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial issued the following statement regarding the passing of former U.S. Rep. Charlie Rangel:
“Congressman Rangel was a longtime friend of the National Urban League and a true champion for civil rights and equal opportunity. The Federal Empowerment Zone project he spearheaded was instrumental in revitalizing urban neighborhoods across the nation. The Low Income Housing Tax Credit legislation he authored financed the majority of affordable housing built over a decade. He also championed the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, which created employment opportunities for thousands of young people, veterans, and ex-offenders. A founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, he blazed a trail as the first Black chair of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee.
“He advocated tirelessly for his Harlem constituents, and was a key supporter of the National Urban League Empowerment Center, our new headquarters and the most significant community development project in recent Harlem history.
“He inspired a generation of activists and advocates, and his legacy lives on through them. Our deepest condolences are with his family and the community he dedicated his life to serve. ”