In 1971, 13 African American members of the United States Congress founded the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) to enhance unity and communication among black legislators. Established during the 77th Congress, it was the largest number of African Americans to ever serve simultaneously in the legislature. Formerly known as the “Democratic Select Committee” in 1969, the organization went through a rebranding, with the goal to “achieve greater equity for persons of African descent”1. The organization, understanding their significant role in politics, also led “legislative campaigns of human and civil rights for all citizen”2. The founding members were Representatives Shirley Chisholm, William Clay, George Collins, John Conyers, Ronald Dellums, Charles Diggs, Augustus Hawkins, Ralph Metcalfe, Parren Mitchell, Robert Nix, Charles Rangel, Louis Stokes, and DC Delegate Walter Fauntroy. Through internal and external strife and criticism, the current day CBC remains a potent force within the African American Community.
To learn more about the Congressional Black Congress, visit:
https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/congressional-black-caucus-1971/
https://www.cbcfinc.org/learn-about-us/history/