MEDIA CONTACT:
STEVEN ENGELHARDT (314) 504-4029
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: TUESDAY 3.15.11
 

Clay Commemorates 40th Anniversary of the Congressional Black Caucus
Salutes Courage of Founders, Pledges to Continue the Mission

-WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Wm. Lacy Clay (D) Missouri today saluted the Congressional Black Caucus on the 40th Anniversary of its formation.  Congressman Clay’s father, former Congressman Bill Clay, was one of thirteen founding Members who came together in 1971 to give African Americans a unified national voice in the U.S. Congress.

 
“I am enormously proud of what my father and his colleagues created,” said the Congressman.  "They knew then, and we know today, that the best way to advance the vital interests of African Americans is to project a powerful, positive and progressive message that speaks truth to power, without apology or equivocation.  My generation of CBC Members stands on the shoulders of our courageous founders who broke down barriers for African Americans. And by doing so, they elevated all Americans.  Under the leadership of my good friend and colleague, Chairman Emanuel Cleaver (D), Missouri, the CBC continues to be the conscience of the Congress.  We are committed to continuing our fearless advocacy for jobs, education, healthcare, housing and voting rights.”
 

“As Chairman Cleaver stated earlier today, The Congressional Black Caucus will not compromise when it comes to the welfare of our constituents and communities. Our top priority remains getting Americans back to work by creating economic opportunity for all, not cutting critical programs that impact the welfare of our most vulnerable communities.”

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