by Dan Perkins

The 109th Congress is now in session, fashioning legislation that will affect our country for years to come.

Advancing the concerns of minorities within the Congress has never been an easy process, but in 1969, African American representatives formed the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) with the intent to "serve as the conscience of Congress."

Today, the CBC has 439 members and is chaired by Congressman Melvin Watt of North Carolina.

Below is a list of the current members of the CBC.  All are democrats, and all are members of the House of Representatives, with the notable exception of Barack Obama, who is the second African American to serve in the U.S. Senate from the state of Illinois.

It is important for African Americans, and Americans of all persuasions, not to walk away from the political process.

Concerns over national policies and world events should be targeted and voiced to our representatives in Congress; after all, they are there to serve us, the people.

Regardless of whether your concerns involve arms proliferation; AIDS, famine or war in Africa; the future of government set-aside programs; changes to social security; or uncontrolled spending by Congress, make your voice heard.

To contact any CBC member from this web page, simply click on the flag located in the lower right-hand corner of his or her graphic. You will be taken to their official web site.

Use this resource to empower yourself, your community and your nation.