The Congressional Black Caucus -- Really?

In the August 2011 issue of Ebony magazine there is acknowledgement of the Congressional Black Caucus’ (CBC) 40th Anniversary. Technically, these events are sponsored by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, a non-profit, non-partisan (pause for laughter here) organization that was founded in 1976. In fairness the CBCF does leadership training and scholarship programs in addition to sponsoring the social event of the year in Washington, D.C. I once had a job that made me attend the CBCF’s annual meeting and Gala because they thought it was a perk for Black employees. For those of use who have conservative values it was painful, but I did learned two things there:

• It is the Democrat Black Caucus – those who were Republican were not welcome in the Caucus
• It is a wonderful advertisement for term limits

Of the founding members of the Black Caucus, two are still in Congress. The Black Caucus was originally founded in January 1968 as a Democrat Select Committee, and renamed in February 1971 by a motion by Charles Rangel (still there). Even Wikipedia only cites a moment of silence for Michael Jackson’s passing as major accomplishments. Interestingly, each member represents a district or city that continues to send Democrats to Congress despite the fact that the success and achievement continue to elude them. My memories of Black Caucus weekend include:

• Senator John Kerry telling an audience that “when I am elected President, you will not have to come through the back door of the White House like you have to now.” Did Colin Powell and Condoleezza Rice know about this?

• Senator Tom Daschle asking the audience after introducing all the members of the Black Caucus. “Would they (Republicans) let you do what we’ve (Democrats) let you do?” Why how very white of them to let these individuals work for election to Congress.

Perhaps J.C. Watts said it best when he refused to join the CBC citing its members as “race baiting poverty pimps.”

Where is the CBC’s focus on stopping the over-taxation of Americans, job creation in the private sector, encouraging Black entrepreneurs through tax cuts, achievement in schools, and success without government subsidies? Where is the call for recognition of those who have achieved greatness in this country in both parties, such as Condoleezza Rice, Colin Powell, J.C. Watts, Alan Keyes, etc. When will they stand up for the values of Black families like life, the open practice of religion, including Christianity, and family values?

I can’t help, but think that a truly effective CBC would celebrate the election of a Black president and its 40th Anniversary by acknowledging that its time of division and race-baiting has come and gone.