Yesterday, we launched our Countdown to CBC series with Constitution Day, focusing on the urgent threats facing our democracy.
To meet the challenges ahead, we must understand the foundation of our strength. So let's go back to the basics with CBC 101.
For more than fifty years, the Congressional Black Caucus has served as the conscience of Congress. This coalition has shaped our nation's progress and defended democracy through every pivotal moment of modern history.
Founded in 1971 with just thirteen members, including trailblazers such as Shirley Chisholm and Charles Diggs, the CBC was established to ensure that Black Americans secured the rights and protections too often denied to them.
Today, 62 members strong, the CBC carries that mission forward. From protecting civil rights to advancing economic justice, we remain united in expanding equity, freedom, and opportunity for Black communities and all who have been pushed to the margins of our society.
As Chair, I have the honor of leading the largest class in CBC history. Together, we are confronting extremist Republicans in Congress, defending the hard-won rights generations fought to achieve, and building pathways to prosperity for our communities.
The CBC's strength has always flowed from the community we serve. As we head into the Annual Legislative Conference next week, we carry your hopes and your trust with us.
Keep an eye out for the next Countdown to CBC update as we move toward ALC.
In solidarity, Yvette D. Clarke
Yvette Clarke is the ONLY Black woman representing New York in Washington. As Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, she’s brought together moderates and progressives to pass legislation that helps communities of color, low-income families, immigrants, and more. If you'd like only the most important updates, you can opt for fewer emails here, but if you don't want to keep Yvette proudly representing Brooklyn, you can unsubscribe.
