Charles Rangel
Charles Rangel
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Charles Bernard Rangel is a renowned American politician, attorney, and educator. He is commonly known as Charlie Rangel.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: June 11, 1930, in New York City, USA
Still active in public life
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession(s): Politician, Attorney, Educator
Early Life and Background
Charles Rangel was born to a Puerto Rican mother and an African-American father. Growing up in Spanish Harlem, he faced racism and poverty but persevered with the help of his mother's determination and support from local community leaders. Rangel's early life experiences instilled in him a passion for social justice and public service.
Rangel attended Howard University on a scholarship, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1957. He later served in the United States Army during the Korean War. After his military service, he went on to earn a law degree from New York Law School (now part of New York Law School and New York Law School's Extension Division) in 1960.
Major Accomplishments
Rangel has had a storied career in public service, marked by numerous accomplishments:
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives for over four decades
First Hispanic to serve in Congress
Key player in drafting the Tax Reform Act of 1986 and the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993
Advocated for the creation of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus
Introduced numerous bills, including those aimed at reducing poverty, improving education, and promoting healthcareNotable Works or Actions
Some notable works and actions that have contributed to Rangel's enduring legacy include:
His efforts to pass the Voting Rights Act of 1965
His work as a member of the House Ways and Means Committee
His support for the creation of the Hispanic Congressional Caucus
His advocacy for comprehensive immigration reformImpact and Legacy
Charles Rangel's impact on American politics is profound. As one of the longest-serving members of Congress, he has championed causes affecting marginalized communities and fought tirelessly to protect their rights. His dedication to public service and commitment to social justice have inspired countless individuals.
Rangel's legacy extends beyond his legislative achievements; it also reflects his ability to connect with diverse communities and build bridges across party lines. He has been recognized for his contributions with numerous awards, including the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Charles Rangel is widely quoted and remembered due to his:
Unwavering commitment to social justice
Tireless advocacy for marginalized communities
Enduring legacy as a champion of progressive causes
* Inspiring example as a leader who has served with distinction in Congress for over four decades
Quotes by Charles Rangel
If you are spending too much, you cut back on spending and you raise your revenues. And that’s it.
I don’t know whether the number of any particular Latino group has made or will make any particular difference in the issues that I am concerned with.
I have a record that I’m so very, very proud of, and no campaign is going to take that away.
Without question, conditions in the Haiti are worse since Aristide’s removal, and continue to deteriorate.
Reapportionment is not friendly to a lot of communities and it hasn’t been too friendly to mine.
If you got problems like unemployment, Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare and there’s a guy that’s always been there for you and for your family, then you say ‘He’s a nice guy. I don’t know where he came from or how long he’s been here, but Charlie Rangel’s the man.’ That’s what I’m relying on.
The people who couldn’t get out of New Orleans to escape the storm were predominantly Black.
Of course things get stagnant; people get too used to their environment, but that’s why I’m in my district every week, at meetings with my constituents.