New York, NY – Congressman Charles Rangel issued the following statement after learning that his great friend, Mr. Gil Noble, passed away on April 5, 2012:

"I am extremely saddened to learn that my dear friend and Harlem native, Gil Noble, the pioneering anchorman and journalist who spent his career giving a voice to African American causes, has passed away. For over forty years he was perhaps the nation's most important black journalist, bringing the struggle for civil rights and black equality into the homes of millions of Americans.

During his numerous decades hosting his iconic television program, Like It Is, Gil acquainted the country with the story and the culture of Black America.  The show was truly groundbreaking.  It engaged black leaders from Nelson Mandela to Bill Cosby in profound discussions of the country's most important issues. I was greatly honored to appear on Like It Is, debating Reverend Calvin O. Butts, III, of the Abyssinian Baptist Church.  The program also featured insightful documentaries that delved into the lives of Martin Luther King, Jr., W.E.B. DuBois, and countless other historical figures.  Perhaps most importantly, it provided an intelligent and progressive forum for black Americans that changed the way the nation viewed its black citizens.  His legacy will continue as a trailblazer for African Americans in journalism.

You would be hard pressed to find anyone in Harlem who does not have memories of gathering with friends and family to watch Gil Noble eloquently discuss the issues of the day.  The death of Gil, a son of Harlem, is especially saddening for our community.  We will all miss this passionate individual and the inspiration he gave to our nation. We give our condolences to his wife, Jean, and their five children during this time of mourning."