In 1955, Charles Diggs Jr. became the first Black person from Michigan elected to the House of Representatives. His election paved the way for more Black politicians to enter an arena that often times represented them by district but never...See moreIn 1955, Charles Diggs Jr. became the first Black person from Michigan elected to the House of Representatives. His election paved the way for more Black politicians to enter an arena that often times represented them by district but never really looked like them in session. As the numbers grew, Diggs created what would be known as the precursor to the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), the Democratic Select Committee. Diggs realized there was power in numbers and Black leaders were in a prime spot to influence, develop legislature, and support marginalized groups. By 1971, the CBC was formed, and while it was met with resistance by Richard Nixon's administration, Black leaders held their ground and forced Nixon's hands in acknowledging their existence. Hosted by Henry Louis Gates Jr. - with additional commentary from Hasan Jeffries of Ohio State University - we celebrate a group of Black congressional leaders who continue to be the voice for marginalized groups today.
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