By SÍle Moloney | Norwood News | May 26 2025 | Read the Full Article Here
Rev. Michael Blake, another Democratic mayoral candidate also released a statement, calling Rangel a national hero and political mentor to countless leaders across generations, especially the Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and 100 Black Men of America. “Brother Congressman Rangel’s loss leaves an emptiness and grief felt not only in Harlem but across the nation. Brother Congressman Rangel was more than a public servant, he was a beloved son of his community, whose life embodied strength, resilience, and unwavering love for the people he served.”
He added in part, “His voice gave power to the powerless, and his legacy will forever echo in the hearts of those who called him family, leader, mentor, and friend. The Lion of Lenox was gracious enough to let me introduce one of our Alpha neophytes to him and Mayor Dinkins in 2019 at the African American Day Parade in Harlem. Brother Congressman Rangel took time to share the fraternal greeting with us while providing advice, jokes and insight in that invaluable and unforgettable conversation.”
