The Congressional Black Caucus was formed on Jan. 12, 1971 to represent the Black members of the United States Congress and to support programs and services that positively influence the African-American community.
Its founding members included Shirley Chisholm, William L. Clay, George W. Collins, John Conyers, Ronald Dellums, Charles Diggs, Augustus F. Hawkins, Ralph Metcalfe, Parren Mitchell, Robert Nix, Charles B. Rangel, Louis Stokes and Walter Fauntroy.
The CBC's goals have been to close the education gap, make sure that all Americans have access to quality health care despite race or socioeconomic status, employment opportunities and welfare funds among others. There are currently 42 members.

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