Our family extends condolences on the passing of the Honorable Brother Charles B. Rangel. A national hero who served our country as a Korean War Veteran and Congressman, devote Husband, Father and political mentor to countless leaders across generations, especially those of us who are Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and 100 Black Men of America.
Brother Congressman Rangel’s loss leaves an emptiness and grief felt not only in Harlem but across the nation. Brother Congressman Rangel was more than a public servant, he was a beloved son of his community, whose life embodied strength, resilience, and unwavering love for the people he served. His voice gave power to the powerless, and his legacy will forever echo in the hearts of those who called him family, leader, mentor, and friend. The Lion of Lenox was gracious enough to let me introduce one of our Alpha neophytes to him and Mayor Dinkins in 2019 at the African American Day Parade in Harlem. Brother Congressman Rangel took time to share the fraternal greeting with us while providing advice, jokes and insight in that invaluable and unforgettable conversation.
Today, we not only grieve a political icon, but we also grieve a remarkable Black man who served his country in the military and in Congress, whose warmth, humor, and humanity touched my life and everyone he encountered. Lenox Avenue has lost its lion, and our country has lost a Titan. We extend our deepest and most heartfelt prayers to the Rangel family during this incredibly painful time. May you find comfort in knowing how deeply he was loved, and how profoundly he will be missed. For him to be called on home on Memorial Day allows us to salute your lifelong sacrifice once more at the highest level of excellence that you deserve. Rest in peace, Brother Congressman Rangel. The Gang of Four are now reunited in Heaven and continue to provide Black Excellence to us, now from Heaven.
Brother Congressman Rangel, your light lives on in every soul you uplifted, and I am beyond grateful to have shared space in your remarkable brilliance.
