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A Tribute to the Lion of Harlem, Congressman Charles Rangel [1]
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Date: 2025-05-28
I am posting this for a friend who asked if I could post her tribute to Congressman Charles B Rangel, who recently passed away. This is her tribute.
By Antoinette Pitcan
The Lion Sleeps: An Ode Honoring the Legacy of Congressman
Charlie Rangel
Congressman Charles B. Rangel (1930–2025): A Lifetime of Service, A Legacy That Roars
Tribute
The roar of a lion has quieted, but its echo resounds through generations.
Congressman Charles B. Rangel—The Lion of Harlem—has taken his rest, leaving behind a
legacy etched into the very fabric of American history.
A decorated war hero, a relentless legislator, a founding member of the Congressional Black
Caucus, and a fearless advocate for justice, equity, and human dignity—Charlie Rangel devoted
over four decades in Congress to fighting for those whose voices were often ignored.
He rose from the streets of Harlem with grit, grace, and unwavering purpose. His presence in the
House was not just political—it was transformational. He championed education, economic
development, healthcare, and civil rights with a voice that commanded respect and a heart that
never stopped beating for the people.
He once said,
“I am not a liberal hero. I am a guy from Harlem who has worked hard to honor the people
who sent me to Washington.”
And honor them he did—with passion, integrity, and unbreakable spirit.
Today, the lion sleeps, but his roar lives on.
It echoes in every policy forged for fairness.
It hums in every neighborhood that stands stronger because of his fight.
It whispers in the halls of Congress, where his shadow still stands tall.
We honor Congressman Rangel not with silence, but with gratitude.
Not with sorrow alone, but with a renewed commitment to justice.
May his life’s work continue to inspire bold leadership, unshakeable courage, and the unyielding
belief that one person can indeed make a difference.
Rest well, Congressman.
Your legacy will never sleep.
Legacy Timeline: The Life and Impact of Charlie Rangel
Year Milestone
1930 Born on June 11 in Harlem, New York City.
1950 Enlisted in the U.S. Army; served in the Korean War; awarded a Bronze Star and a
Purple Heart.
1960 Graduated from New York University and earned a law degree from St. John’s
University School of Law.
1970 Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, defeating Adam Clayton Powell Jr.
1971 Co-founded the Congressional Black Caucus.
1987–199
3 Served as Chair of the House Select Committee on Narcotics Abuse and Control.
2007–201
0 Became Chairman of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee.
2015 Retired from Congress after 23 terms, making him one of the longest-serving
members in U.S. history.
2025 Remembered as a trailblazer, fighter, and voice for the people. The lion rests.
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