Press Releases

Today, the Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), Congressman Cedric L. Richmond (D-LA-02), released the following statement on the passing of Ron Dellums, a founding Member of the CBC who dedicated his life to public service and the advancement of progressive causes.

“The Congressional Black Caucus extends its thoughts and prayers to Ron Dellums’ loved ones. Behind the trailblazing leadership of Mr. Dellums and 12 others more than 45 years ago, the Congressional Black Caucus was established to form a voting bloc that could collectively influence policy affecting African Americans nationwide. Today, the Congressional Black Caucus represents nearly 78 million Americans and is known as the conscience of the Congress giving voice to the voiceless. 

“A pioneer in his own right, Mr. Dellums paved the way on several policy fronts during his 27 years in Congress. More than 30 years ago, he worked to pass critical anti-Apartheid legislation imposing economic sanctions on the South African government. He also served as the first black Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee where he valiantly fought to reduce excessive military spending, limit gratuitous military activity abroad, and repeal the ban on gay and lesbian service members. 

“A legacy that will endure long after today’s tragic news, Ron Dellums is a profile in courage, conviction, and compassion we have all learned from over the years. As the people of Oakland can attest to, his career epitomizes the adage, ‘think globally, act locally.’ For that, we express our eternal gratitude for his willingness to speak truth to power and vow to keep that heritage alive.”