Black Americans in Congress: An Introduction
When black men were given the right to vote, they elected hundreds of black legislators to state and national offices, even though the elections are preceded by threats and violence. The new black politicians, like Mississippi’s John Roy Lynch, pass ambitious civil rights and public education laws.
The arrival of Senator Hiram Revels of Mississippi and Representative Joseph Rainey of South Carolina on Capitol Hill in 1870 ranks among the great paradoxes in American history; just a decade earlier, these African Americans’ congressional seats were held by southern slave owners. Moreover, the U.S. Capitol, the center of legislative government, conceived by its creators as the “Temple of Liberty”—had been constructed with the help of enslaved laborers.
“The Fifteenth Amendment in Flesh and Blood,” 1870–1887
These pioneering African-American Representatives symbolized a new democratic order in the United States, demonstrating not only courage but also relentless determination. They often braved elections marred by violence and fraud. With nuance and tact they balanced the needs of black and white constituents in their Southern districts, and they argued passionately for legislation promoting racial equality.
“The Negroes’ Temporary Farewell,” 1887–1929
By the 1890s, most Black Americans had either been barred from or abandoned electoral politics in frustration. Advocacy for blacks in Congress became substantially more difficult. After North Carolina Representative George White’s departure from the House of Representatives in March 1901, no African American served in the U.S. Congress for nearly three decades.
With his election to the U.S. House of Representatives from a Chicago district in 1928, Oscar De Priest of Illinois became the first African American to serve in Congress since George White of North Carolina left office in 1901. But while the victory symbolized renewed hope for African Americans struggling to regain a foothold in national politics, it was only the beginning of an arduous journey.
The Selma-to-Montgomery March for voting rights ended three weeks–and three events–that represented the political and emotional peak of the modern civil rights movement. On “Bloody Sunday,” March 7, 1965.
Permanent Interests, 1971–2007
The modern era of African Americans’ more than 140-year history in Congress began in 1971. During this period, black Members enjoyed a tremendous surge in numbers, reflecting a larger historical process, as minority groups and women exercised their new freedom to participate in American society. The post-1970 generation of Black Americans in Congress marked a watershed in American history—a transition from a period of prolonged protest to full political participation.
Resulting in the election of our 45th President, Barack Obama
President Obama stabilized our economy, increased both our healthcare options and job enhancements, saving our auto industry among other things.
Now Solivita, it is 2017 and again, we must fight for Civil Rights, Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security. Education, Healthcare, Immigration and Racism among other equally important agendas.
Democratic ideology ranks in the minority in all 3 branches of government.
Remember these words:
“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Let’s work together, wisely and effectively, to achieve our goals, placing balance back into our government. Join us.
Solivita Democratic Club
