Press Releases

Today, Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and members of the Congressional Black Caucus issued the following statement:

“It is with deep respect and profound sadness that we mourn the passing of former Congressman Bill Clay Sr. of Missouri. On behalf of the 61 members of the Congressional Black Caucus, I extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones. We are keeping his entire family in our prayers during this difficult time, including his beloved son, former Congressman Lacy Clay Jr., who succeeded him in representing the people of Missouri in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Congressman Clay was a principled leader and a tireless advocate for civil rights and economic justice. Born in St. Louis in 1931, he brought the conscience of the movement with him to the halls of Congress, where he served honorably for more than three decades. As Missouri’s first Black member of Congress, he fought tirelessly to open doors of opportunity and to protect the rights of working people across our nation. 

“A founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus in 1971, Congressman Clay helped build the CBC into a force for equity and accountability in American democracy. As a member of Congress, he was a fierce defender of labor rights, education, and social justice. His voice carried the strength of conviction and the clarity of purpose that helped shape a more inclusive nation. 

“Congressman Bill Clay leaves behind a legacy of dignity, courage, and transformative impact. His work laid the foundation for future generations of Black leadership in public service. May he rest in power and everlasting peace.”