CBC Members Share Their Black History Inspirations

Members reflect on the people who've inspired them most.

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CBC Chairwoman Marcia Fudge (Ohio) - I am deeply inspired by Shirley Chisholm and her legacy of courage and of service. As the first African-American woman elected to serve in Congress, she was committed to breaking through barriers and overcoming obstacles placed in her way by society's standards. Because of the doors she opened in public service, I and women of color are able to achieve our greatest potential and serve as leaders in communities across this nation and in all sectors of society.(Photos: Mark Wilson/Getty Images; Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
ARP1946632Rep. Frederica Wilson (Florida) - I have always admired the tenacity and fearlessness of Sojourner Truth. She was a passionate leader and a courageous fighter who championed many of the issues we are still fighting for today. Our ongoing fight to close the economic opportunity gap in Congress is reminiscent of her diligent efforts to secure land grants for newly freed slaves. Like Sojourner Truth, I am led by faith and will continue to be a voice for the voiceless and the downtrodden.   (Photos: Alex Wong/Getty Images; Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) 

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Living the Dream - From everyday Americans to civil rights legends, each of these people have helped spark generations of new leaders. Here some members of the Congressional Black Caucus recall figures from Black history or from their own communities who've inspired them most.—  Joyce Jones (@BETpolitichick) (Photo: AFP/Getty Images)

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