Congressional Black Caucus

Since 1971, the Congressional Black Caucus has considered itself to be the “conscience of the Congress.” Thirteen Black lawmakers who represented large cities founded the group to work collectively on African-American issues. It has since grown to include 43 members from rural and urban districts. Despite losses in the 2010 midterm election cycle that returned Democrats to the minority party, several CBC members have maintained key leadership positions, including Rep. James Clyburn, who serves as Assistant Democratic Leader.