Diaspora leaders hail Rangel as a friend of Jamaica

NEW YORK:

Jamaican leaders in the New York diaspora have paid tribute to the late Congressman Charles Rangel, who passed away on Monday at age 94, describing him as a champion of Jamaica and the wider Caribbean whose legacy of advocacy and friendship will endure.

Rangel, a decorated Korean War veteran and long-time representative of Harlem in the US House of Representatives, was instrumental in strengthening US-Caribbean relations. He is credited as the driving force behind the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI), which allowed Jamaican and other Caribbean exports into the US under favourable trade terms.

Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Alsion Wilson, described Rangel as a towering figure in American politics and a cherished friend of Jamaica, highlighting his four-decade-long commitment to justice, immigrant rights, and Caribbean development.

“Throughout his distinguished 46-year tenure in the US House of Representatives, Congressman Rangel was a staunch advocate for policies that advanced the rights and well-being of immigrants. He co-sponsored pivotal legislation, including the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act, which sought to provide a pathway to citizenship for millions of undocumented individuals contributing to American society. His advocacy extended to supporting the DREAM Act, reflecting his deep understanding of the challenges faced by immigrant youth and families,” she said in a statement.

She said that his connection to Jamaica was both personal and profound, and was a familiar and beloved presence at numerous Jamaican cultural celebrations in New York, often engaging with community members.

Wilson added that Rangel’s support for economic initiatives like the CBI significantly deepened trade and development ties between the Caribbean and the US.

Congresswoman Yvette Clarke remembered Rangel as not just a dedicated public servant, but also a trailblazer for black Americans in politics.

She said not only was the late congressman a decorated war hero, but a good and faithful public servant for more than 40 years.

STRENGTHENED RELATIONS

“Mr Rangel was a true New Yorker and a son of Harlem, who earned his recognition as ‘the Lion of Lenox Ave’. As dean of New York’s US House delegation, he understood the diversity of his city and advocated for the rights of Haitian migrants, for strengthening US and Cuban relations, and for fostering economic development and opportunity for the people of his city. He fought to break down racial barriers, for equality, and against injustice,” she said.

Veteran community leader Karl Rodney, who partnered with Rangel on economic missions to the Caribbean, described him as probably the staunchest supporter of Jamaica and the Caribbean in the US Congress.

Recalling his long and enduring friendship with Jamaica, Rodney said Rangel made sure that the voice of the Caribbean was heard in the halls of Congress.

“He connected Jamaican and Caribbean business interests with those in New York and the wider United States, to ensure that the region prospered,” said Rodney.

Former Jamaica-born New York City Councilmember Una Clarke reflected on Rangel’s early belief in her potential, recalling how he backed her run for office when others hesitated.

“He threw his entire support behind in my run for the city council when others doubted my ability to win,” she said.

She said that his support for Jamaica never wavered and he never missed an opportunity to tout Jamaica on the United States stage. She recalled that it was through his efforts that bills were passed in Congress to benefit Jamaica, Haiti and the wider Caribbean.

“He was a true friend of Jamaica and the Caribbean,” she said.

Former Jamaican Diaspora Councilmember for the Northeast Region, Dr Karren Dunkley, said Rangel’s legacy is etched in the annals of US and Caribbean history.

“His deep ties to Jamaica were not merely political – they were personal, principled, and enduring. For decades, Congressman Rangel advocated for fair immigration policies, increased development aid, and cultural exchange that benefited Jamaicans at home and abroad. He was instrumental in pushing for economic justice and equitable foreign policy that acknowledged the strategic and cultural importance of the Caribbean region. Whether speaking in the halls of Congress or marching alongside the Jamaican community in New York, he remained an unwavering ally and advocate,” she said.

editorial@gleanerjm.com