The 119th United States Congress opened on January 3, 2025, marking a historic moment for Black lawmakers across the nation. The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), founded in 1971, celebrated a major milestone with 62 members, the largest membership in its history. This achievement comes at a time when the total number of Black lawmakers in Congress has risen to 67, setting a new record for representation.
Historic Milestones for Black Representation in Congress
This significant increase in Black lawmakers marks a turning point in U.S. history. The CBC, which began with just 13 members, including one woman, now represents a wide array of leaders from all backgrounds. Of the 62 CBC members, five are Republicans who are not affiliated with the nonpartisan caucus, but they still contribute to the growing diversity in Congress.
Vice President Kamala Harris was present to administer the oath of office to several CBC members, including two historic appointments to the U.S. Senate. For the first time ever, two Black women—Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland and Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware—took their seats in the Senate, furthering the representation of Black women in American politics.
Alabama Makes History with Two Black U.S. House Members
Another groundbreaking achievement came with the election of two Black U.S. House members from Alabama. This marked the first time the state has elected two Black representatives to the U.S. House, with incumbent Rep. Terri Sewell now joined by Shomari Figures. Figures will represent Alabama’s newly created 2nd Congressional District, a district established after a 2022 federal court ruling to provide Black voters a fair chance to elect their preferred candidate. This decision, upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2023, is seen as a significant step toward more inclusive representation in American politics.
Notable Newcomers and Veteran Leaders in the CBC
The CBC’s 62 members also include new faces, such as Janelle Bynum, who made history as Oregon’s first Black member of Congress. She won the 5th Congressional District seat, continuing the legacy of change and growth in the CBC. Alongside newcomers, seasoned leaders like Rep. Alma Adams of North Carolina, who is now serving her sixth term, and other returning members like Don Davis and Valerie Foushee, emphasize the strength and diversity within the CBC.
Commitment to Fighting for Equal Rights and Opportunities
Although the CBC is a nonpartisan group, its members—especially those affiliated with the Democratic Party—remain committed to fighting for equal rights and opportunities for Black Americans and other marginalized communities. As laws and policies continue to evolve, the CBC is dedicated to challenging legislation that could harm these communities and ensuring that the voices of Black Americans are heard and respected.
