Clyburn Statement on the 40th Anniversary of the Congressional Black Caucus

WASHINGTON, DC—Assistant Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn today released the following statement in commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the Congressional Black Caucus:

“I am proud to be serving in Congress during the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the founding of the Congressional Black Caucus.  For four decades, through great change in the country, the CBC has been a strong and consistent force in Congress for equality and opportunity.  I am also proud to be part of the class of 1992, which changed the makeup of the CBC, bringing a more rural and Southern perspective to the group.

“As we look ahead, I hope the CBC will continue to advocate for equality and opportunity in America especially in persistent poverty communities—areas of the country that have been left behind in times of growth and recovery, and that have suffered at least 20 percent poverty for the last 30 years.  The struggles in these communities are impacting overall success of the country, and it’s time we bring some validity to the aphorism ‘a rising tide lifts all boats.’  As we work to create jobs and strengthen the economy, we should have targeted investments in persistent poverty communities so that all Americans can be a part of our nation’s resurgence.”