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WASHINGTON DC - Rep. Charles B. Rangel recently introduced legislation calling for the Post Office located at 365 West 125th Street in Harlem to be renamed after activist, elected official and business leader Percy Sutton.
"Percy Sutton is an inspiration not only to the people of Harlem, but to the entire nation," Congressman Rangel stated. "He has dedicated his life to ensuring the civil and economic rights of others. His service as a Tuskegee Airman in World War II, a civil rights attorney, New York State Assemblyman, Manhattan Borough President and entrepreneur each demonstrate his commitment to ensuring that the economic and civil rights of all Americans are protected."
Sutton, a native of Texas born in 1920, came to New York in 1950 and attended Brooklyn Law School. Prior to moving to New York, he served in the U.S. Armed Forces and received several combat stars as a intelligence officer in World War II. He rose to become one of America's premier attorneys in the 1950's and 1960's, becoming a key cog in the Civil Rights Movement and representing many prominent African American figures, including Malcolm X.
Sutton continued fighting for local empowerment and economic development, first as a Manhattan Borough President (1966 -1977) and later as founder of Inner City Broadcasting Company. The company housed the first African American owned radio stations in New York City (WBLS and WLIB), as well as spurred the revitalization of local cultural landmarks like the Apollo Theater.
For Rangel, just as important has been Sutton's impact on the development of several generations of community leaders.
"Percy Sutton is a great American, a good friend and a mentor to hundreds of young leaders in my Congressional district," said Rangel. "The renaming of the Post Office on 125th St. is one of the many honors we can do to recognize Percy for giving so much to so many."
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