Rangel On His and President Obama's Final State Of The Union

buzzz worthy. . .

January 13, 2016 

Washington D.C. - Congressman Charles B. Rangel, who represents the 13th Congressional District of New York that includes Upper Manhattan and parts of the Bronx, released the following statement in response to President Barack Obama's State of the Union before a Joint Session of Congress where he discussed the progress America has made as he begins his final year in office:

“Tonight, President Barack Obama spoke about a great Nation that gave him the opportunity to become President, and the bold changes he will be making in his final year to continue moving our country forward. America will always be blessed with the vibrancy and vitality of its people, and we must keep the doors of opportunity open for anyone who is willing to work hard in pursuit of the American Dream.

We are a young nation and still have a long way to ensure justice and equality for all. I had hoped we would make faster progress when President Obama was historically elected into office in 2008, but we still have much work ahead of us in the fight against racism and many other critical issues facing our country. Critical national priorities such as reducing gun violence, criminal justice reform, protecting and expanding healthcare, improving education, and comprehensive immigration reform, just to name a few, will remain at the forefront. Let us continue to strive for an America where everyone, regardless of his or her background, can contribute to the greatness of our Nation. 

I am starting my last year in Congress with the same enthusiasm and optimism as my first. In 1971, when I came to Congress, there were only 13 African Americans serving. President Richard Nixon did not acknowledge us, refused to meet with us, and in turn we boycotted his State of the Union address. Looking back on those early days, I am filled with pride as I finish the last year of my own tenure alongside that of the first African American president. We still have a long way to go to form a more perfect union but I am proud and honored knowing I have served my community and country with endless passion and dedication to building a better future for all.”