Today, House Republicans have once again proven that they are more interested in scoring political points than in bipartisan governance. Instead of agreeing to a Senate version of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) that passed with considerable Republican support, my Colleagues have decided to deliberately make it harder for immigrant, Native American, and LGBT victims of domestic violence to get their due recourse against their aggressors. This is both an affront to the rights of the abused and a classic case of blaming the victim instead of giving them the opportunity to defend themselves.
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Representative Charles B. Rangel
Representing the 15th Congressional District of New York
Statements: 2012 Archives
I applaud the good work done by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, as well as that of our local organizations that work in tandem with the SNAP program to help feed New York families. The efforts of the Food Bank for New York City, the Yorkville Common Pantry, and the Bailey House have been particularly vital in providing food to the families who need it.
"Career transition assistance is much-needed relief for those New Yorkers who have lost their jobs in the wake of the economic downturn," said Rangel. "Federal investments like these are the key to restarting growth and putting money back in the pockets of the American people."
With this action America takes another step on its path to recovery. By supporting our small businesses, we can ensure that American job growth will continue and our economy will remain the world's largest and most vibrant.
"Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement on National Teachers Appreciation Week, which takes place May 7-11, 2012, recognizing the dedication and tireless efforts of our teachers in educating America's students."
I am proud that President Barack Obama today announced his belief that marriage equality should extend to all Americans. The President's announcement marks what I hope will be one of the final steps towards total equality for LGBT Americans.
The interest rate on subsidized student loans is set to double from 3.4 percent to 6.8 percent in July. This means that it is now time for decisive action to prevent the burden of student loan debt from continuing to crush American college students and their families - harming the future engine of our great nation.
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Charles Rangel issued the following statement to celebrate Jewish Heritage Month throughout May: "May is the month in which we give praise to America's vast Jewish community. Since our nation's founding the Jewish-American community has played...
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Charles Rangel issued the following statement to mark Clean Air Month in May: "This May, Americans join together to celebrate Clean Air Month. This is a very important reminder to all people that regardless of politics,...
I join the Mexican-American community in my District, particularly in East Harlem, and the nation in celebrating Cinco de Mayo - a triumphant day in which the Mexican army defeated the French in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. On May 5, 1862, the Mexican army upset the French army while being outnumbered and poorly equipped, which secured a valiant battle win for Mexico and prevented the French from supplying Confederate rebels during the U.S. Civil War.
It is clear that President Obama and Democrats in Congress are working hard to pass legislation that supports, protects, and uplifts hardworking Americans, while the Republicans are working to protect the interests of Big Business. I urge my Republican Colleagues to set aside their ideologies and work with us in supporting the President's agenda to continue our path to economic recovery.
During the 49th anniversary of Older Americans Month this May, we must celebrate the contributions that our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents, and especially our brave older Veterans gave to society and to the development of our communities.
I praise the tireless efforts of the New York State Assembly in passing legislation that will create The DREAM Fund Commission to facilitate access to higher education for the children of immigrants to attend college. The Commission, to be administered by the New York State comptroller without incurring costs to New York State taxpayers, aims to raise privately donated funds that will provide scholarships to children with at least one parent who is an immigrant. It is a giant leap forward toward restoring faith in the American Dream and helps bring an end to discriminatory practices against the children of immigrants.
"I praise the tireless efforts of the New York State Assembly in passing legislation that will create The DREAM Fund Commission to facilitate access to higher education for the children of immigrants to attend college.
As we begin our withdrawal from Afghanistan, we pay tribute to the 1,828 heroic Americans who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service of their country. We honor them by ensuring that their brothers and sisters who are coming home are given our deepest admiration and support as they reintegrate into the society they fought so hard to protect.
New York, NY- Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement today commemorating Asian Pacific Americans."I am proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month this May. Now numbering 18.5 million people, the APA community has...
New York, NY - Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement in recognition of Stroke Awareness Month, which takes place during the month of May:"I am proud to commemorate this year's Stroke Awareness Month because I believe that we...
New York, NY - Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement in recognition of National Children's Mental Health Awareness Week, which takes place during the week of May 6-12 in 2012: "Mental health is a core part of our...
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Charles Rangel issued the following statement to mark Israel's Independence Day on sundown April 25, 2012, to sundown April 26, 2012:“Sixty-four years ago, David Ben Gurion declared the establishment of Eretz Israel, the State of Israel....
Washington, DC- Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement today after President Barack Obama called on Congress to prevent student loan interest rates from doubling on July 1:"In America's increasingly globalized economy, a college education is vital to securing...
New York, NY - Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement in recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, which takes place during the week of April 22-28 this year: "I am proud to stand in solidarity with the...
Washington, DC- Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement today after the Social Security and Medicare Board of Trustees released their annual report on the state of Medicare and Social Security:"I am pleased to learn that Social Security and...
New York, NY - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement on National Minority Health Awareness Month which takes place during the month of April:"This month we recognize National Minority Health Awareness, an annual commemorative period to help the nation...
I believe in an America where we do not let our poor go hungry, only to pat ourselves on the back as we tell them "It's for your own good."
New York, NY - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement on National Volunteer Week, April 15 -21, 2012 aimed at celebrating the extraordinary contributions of America's volunteers:
Democrats are concerned with reducing America's dependence on foreign oil and helping the American people get back on their feet, while my Colleagues on the other side of the aisle have consistently opposed efforts to curb excess speculation in energy markets.
I will miss watching this exceptional man bring his unique brand of leadership to the House of Representatives. I wish Ed the best as he begins the next chapter in his extraordinary life.
Now, more than ever, it is necessary to discuss the effects of alcohol with those who may not fully understand its implications.
We must recognize what we, as community members, can do to decrease the prevalence of alcohol-related illnesses.
Mr. Ayers dedicated his life to creating an equitable America where everyone who is willing to work hard and play by the rules can enjoy a secure future. We will miss this hardworking and inspiring leader.
"Our military families make the ultimate sacrifice to defend our country," Rangel said. "I believe the least we can do to show our appreciation is to assure them that their children will receive the long-term care they need."
As we continue to make strides in our economic recovery, I urge Republicans to work with Democrats in reducing the deficit without burdening hard working Americans and cutting the social programs that protect them.
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.
New York, NY – Congressman Charles Rangel issued the following statement on the holiday weekend of Passover, Easter, and the end of Lent: “Every Spring, millions of Americans gather together to observe the holidays of Passover, Easter, and the end of...
New York, NY - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of The Clean Water Act aimed at providing protection for many streams, wetlands and other waters.
“I would like to congratulate Julissa Reynoso on her Senate confirmation to be the United States Ambassador to Uruguay. President Barack Obama made a wise choice in selecting her for this key position.
Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement on the final passage (228-191) of the House Republican Budget that would end the Medicare guarantee and slash over four million jobs while rewarding those making over $1 million a year with over $300,000 in additional tax breaks:
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Charles B. Rangel joined Congressman Russ Carnahan (D-MO) and Colleagues in introducing legislation today to protect veterans’ rights to mental healthcare treatment and services. The “Veterans Mental Health Accessibility Act” is also supported by the AMVETS service organization.
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Charles B. Rangel joined Rep. Gwen Moore (D-WI) and his Colleagues in introducing the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2012, which strengthens the abilities of the Federal Government, States, law enforcement, and service providers to combat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. This bill is very similar to the version reported by the Senate Judiciary Committee in February.
Washington, D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement on the final day of Supreme Court Hearing on the Affordable Care Act: "This Monday, the Supreme Court commenced with three days of oral arguments on the constitutionality of the mandate provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), or healthcare reform. These unprecedented legal proceedings, along with a subsequent ruling which is anticipated this June, could shape - perhaps irrevocably - the future of healthcare in our country."
Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement in honor of John A. Payton, President and Director-Counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund who passed away on March 22, 2012:
Two years ago on March 23, 2010, I was proud to stand with my Democratic colleagues behind President Barack Obama when he signed the Affordable Care Act that I sponsored in the House. As a result millions of Americans now have access to better and more affordable healthcare benefits.
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement today after the Senate approved the House version of the STOCK (Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge Act) by a vote of 96 to 3: "I applaud the swift action taken...
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement today on the Congressional Progress Caucus 'Budget for All' proposal for fiscal year 2013:"The 'Budget for All' proposal introduced today by the Congressional Progressive Caucus effectively addresses the primary concerns...
I am greatly saddened by the death of Trayvon Martin that has shaken the nation and prompted many of my Colleagues in Congress to demand justice.
Republicans have once again chosen to provide tax cuts for the wealthy instead of focusing on job creation and ensuring healthcare for working Americans. They have sought to support Big Oil subsidies and special interest groups over seniors and our most vulnerable.
New York, NY - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement in observance of Brain Awareness Month, which takes place during the month of March, and Brain Awareness Week, taking place from March 12-18, 2012:"Brain injury is the number one...
On Monday, which marks the ninth year of the day we went to war in Iraq, we pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and salute those who have bravely served. Our nation is indebted to the military families that carry the burden on behalf of the nation.
I am sad to learn that my very dear friend and Colleague Congressman Gary Ackerman will be retiring at year’s end. Since he entered office after winning a special election in 1983, I have witnessed Gary’s unyielding dedication to the people of Queens and Long Island.
Washington, D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement today after Dr. Grant Colfax was appointed by President Obama as the new Director of the Office of National AIDS Policy: "I am very pleased that President Obama has appointed...
Today, Democratic and Republican Senators overwhelmingly voted to generate jobs, repair our roads and bridges, invest in our infrastructure, and strengthen our economy. It is now time for House Republicans to join us.
Washington, D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement in honor of the 100th Anniversary of the Girls Scouts of the USA:"Today, on the centennial anniversary of the Girl Scouts of the USA, we praise the tremendous contributions made...
""The physical, emotional, and psychological toll of HIV/AIDS is overwhelming, contributing to family stress, community breakdown, and lost work productivity. While we have made much progress toward combating the deadly virus, we must work together as one nation to ensure America's women and girls have the opportunity for a healthier and brighter future."
“Once again President Barack Obama has exceeded expectations as the new jobs report shows continuous signs of improvement in our nation's economic recovery. Despite Republican attempts to block the President's American Jobs Act, Democratic efforts have helped spur 2.2 million new jobs in the past year.
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement to mark 2012 International Women’s Day, which is annually celebrated on March 8:“Today, on International Women's Day, we laud the tremendous progress women have made in various fields, including education,...
I want to congratulate the National Urban League on the release of its annual 2012 State of Black America report and its continued contributions to promoting equality in our country.
Israel is one of America’s greatest friends and a pillar of democracy. I am pleased that there is a long standing relationship between our two nations. As we confront the issue of nuclear armament by Iran we have every reason to believe that America and Israel will be speaking with one voice.
I cannot fully express my sadness over the death of my dearest friend and Congressional Black Caucus Colleague Congressman Donald Payne. Today his constituents in New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District, our Colleagues in Congress, people across America and around the globe mourn the loss of a great man, leader and humanitarian.
I hope that all Americans will join me in recognizing the importance of practicing healthy eating habits during National Nutrition Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, poor eating habits contribute to a host of diseases, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. We can take several steps to improve our eating habits.
Congressman Charles Rangel expressed his disappointment that House Republicans defeated on a near party-line vote the Capps amendment to the Protecting Academic Freedom in Higher Education Act (H.R. 2117), a bill aimed to ensure the integrity of federal student financial assistance programs.
"National Women's History Month is rooted in my native New York City, when in 1857, women factory workers waged protests over labor conditions. I stand proudly as an original co-sponsor of the current resolution to commemorate Women's History Month and urge everyone to recognize the innumerable contributions of women throughout our history."
Colorectal cancer, a silent killer, is on the rise in America. According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 143,000 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer by the end of 2012.
"For a quarter century I have had the privilege to call House Parliamentarian John Sullivan a dear Colleague. He leaves behind a strong legacy of helping Members navigate the rules of the House with extensive knowledge and distinction for which he will be greatly missed."
I am saddened by the death of a cherished and accomplished public servant, my dear friend Congresswoman Katie Hall. I join my fellow Congressional Black Caucus Members and Colleagues in Congress in mourning a true champion for her constituents in Indiana's 1st Congressional District and the American people.
Congressman Charles Rangel applauded the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for releasing their new personalized Health Benefits Handbook. The handbook will include valuable healthcare benefits and other important information for veterans in an easy-to-read format.
Congressman Charles Rangel applauded today's passage of H.R. 3630, the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act by a vote of 293-132 in the House and 60-36 in the Senate. The bill extends the payroll tax cut for the remainder of 2012, keeping an average of $1,000 in the pockets of 160 million middle-class families.
Washington, D.C. - Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement today on President Obama's budget proposal for fiscal year 2013:"President Obama has clearly presented a conclusive budget that will reduce the deficit by $4 trillion over the next decade while...
"Under the new policy announced today, women will still have access to free preventive care that includes contraceptive services – no matter where she works. Today, the President has proved it is possible to respect religious liberty while protecting women's health"
"Now that the debate has begun again for a yearlong extension, Americans need to put the pressure back on their Members of Congress to get this deal done."
Today we recognize National Black HIV Day in an effort to end the devastating effects of HIV in black communities throughout America. Out of 1 million who suffer from the deadly disease nearly half are African-Americans, who make up only 12% of the population.
Each year, more Americans die from heart disease than all other causes of death, combined. In Congress, I will continue the fight to alleviate the pain and suffering of heart disease by ensuring that medical coverage remains available for those who need it the most.
President Barack Obama’s new Veterans Jobs Corps initiative is another testament of his commitment to America’s veterans. The greatest support we as a nation can give our nation's heroes is creating jobs and restoring the American Dream they have bravely defended.
"The new jobs report proves that President Barack Obama and his Administration’s economic recovery plan has been successful. With the addition of 243,000 jobs in January, which dropped the unemployment rate to 8.3 from 8.5 percent, America's workforce received another boost and is gaining steam.
This week marks the one-year anniversary of the Startup America Legislative Agenda, a national initiative that aims to promote private-sector investment in entrepreneurship. I am very pleased to see a program that aimed to give small businesses and entrepreneurs the tools they need to expand their businesses or start new ones.
Throughout February we recognize the lives and events of black pioneers who have made our country a truer nation of equality for all. Born in the midst of the Harlem Renaissance I am honored to come from and represent a congressional district that has such a rich black heritage. Through civic participation and urban culture Harlem has forever shaped our nation's history.
In a place like the United States of America which was formed on the basis of freedom, especially freedom of religion, such a serious accusation made by one of our esteemed Members against the President of the United States -- condemning President Obama for persecuting religion in a very broad and general way -- should not be made.
The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act was a critical law championing the principle of equal pay for women. Three years ago I was privileged to vote for this historic legislation reaffirming a core American principle: equal pay for equal work -- regardless of gender, race, or background
Although I am sad to see Rep. Gabrielle Giffords leave Congress, I am grateful to have served alongside such an outstanding Colleague, and whom I considered as the epitome of a true public servant. A loving wife and devoted Representative of Arizona’s 8th District, Gabby will forever be remembered in Congress as one of its most kind and amiable Member.
Because of my long acquaintance with Congressman Ed Jenkins, I would like to take the opportunity to share with his family and those that knew him. Many of us who were raised in Harlem have had very little opportunities to meet Southern gentlemen such as Congressman Jenkins.
"As a founding Member of the Congressional Glaucoma Caucus, I recognize the importance of promoting awareness for the sight-stealing disease known as glaucoma."
In his State of the Union Address tonight, President Obama provided the American people with hope that our nation is headed in the right direction. He presented a plan that will rebuild our country’s foundation to sustain every American rather than just a wealthy few.
It is important that we recognize Cervical Health Awareness Month this January: Around 8 in every 100,000 women in New York are diagnosed annually with Cervical Cancer. Hispanic and Black women nationwide have even higher rates of cervical cancer and die from the disease in greater numbers.
Today we celebrate the start of the Lunar New Year, one of the most important cultural traditions of the Asian community. In our Manhattan Congressional District we are fortunate to define ourselves as a fusion of cultures, music, and the arts that bring many people from different backgrounds together as one community.
On January 22, 1973, the Supreme Court made a historic decision that changed the course for protecting women’s health and personal freedom. It ruled that women have a constitutional right to choose whether or not to have abortion, free from government interference.
I am saddened to learn that my good friend, Colleague and fellow New Yorker, Congressman Maurice Hinchey will not seek reelection. As Members of the New York Congressional Delegation, I have seen firsthand the contributions Maurice has made to the people of the 22nd Congressional District, New York State and our entire nation.
I was awed in listening to my friend Congressman [Ron] Paul…What he just said was right: America is walking down a very serious economic path that will jeopardize what is left of our fiscal system, which will also impact the entire world.
"I applaud President Obama’s recent proposal to streamline and reorganize our government. The proposal will make government agencies more efficient and effective, saving up to three billion dollars."
On Monday our nation celebrates the historic birthday of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Half a century ago, the great Dr. King changed the course of America's history by devoting his life to a struggle for ‘the riches of freedom and the security of justice.’
New York, NY – Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement today after President Obama appointed Cecilia Muñoz as the new Director of the Domestic Policy Council:
I commend President Obama’s new initiative to create over 180,000 job opportunities for underprivileged youth in our country. The proposed $1.5 billion will give hope to our low-income youth who are facing record unemployment
New York, NY – Congressman Charles Rangel issued the following statement in honor of The Feast of the Epiphany, more commonly referred to as Three Kings Day, today on January 6, 2012:"Today millions of people from Mexico, the Caribbean, and...
Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement today, January 5, 2012, on the Department of Labor’s recent jobs report showing Unemployment dropped to 8.5 percent, U.S. private employers added 200,000 jobs in December and jobless claims fell by 15,000 in the last week of the month.
I commend President Obama’s unyielding leadership in taking executive action to appoint Richard Cordray to lead the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau instead of waiting for Republicans in the Senate who have stood in the way of protecting the American people from non-bank financial services providers, like payday lenders, debt collectors, and check-cashing outlets.
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