Former U.S. Congressman Charles B. Rangel, who served New York City and the nation for decades, was honored posthumously with the Key to the City of New York by Mayor Eric Adams. At a Juneteenth Celebration held at Gracie Mansion, the key was presented as a tribute to Rangel’s extensive contributions, from his bravery in the Korean War to his nearly half-century-long legislative career. Noted for his work in affordable housing, health care, education, and tax reform, Rangel's legacy as a passionate public servant was hailed.
Marking the Juneteenth event, Mayor Adams lauded Rangel, who passed away on May 26 at the age of 94, as a "true son of Harlem" and highlighted his commitment to his roots and service. "Charlie Rangel's life was the embodiment of public service," Mayor Adams remarked, while in Korea fighting for his country or in Capitol Hill fighting for New Yorkers, always remembering the community he came from. This statement was obtained by the NYC Mayor's Office. Adams also spoke of Rangel's impact saying, "Today, I am honored to celebrate the legacy of the 'Lion of Lenox' by presenting his loved ones with the honor of a Key to the City of New York. Rest in power, my friend."
The symbolic award, which has origins dating back to 1702, is a gesture of the city's gratitude and recognition for exemplary public service. The Key to the City was first bestowed as a means for guests to feel free to come and go as they please, a kind of freedom of the city. Over the years, it transformed into an accolade for notable achievements in serving the public good. Rangel's Key to the City acknowledges the immeasurable contributions he made throughout his life and career.
Born on June 11, 1930, Charlie Rangel’s path from Harlem to the U.S. Congress reflects a lifetime of perseverance and service. Following his decorated service in the Korean War, Rangel pursued higher education at New York University and St. John's University School of Law, which paved the way for his historic election to Congress in 1970. Over the course of his career, he became a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and the first African American to chair the House Ways and Means Committee, consistently advocating for issues important to his community. The tribute came at the end of a week of memorial events across New York City, including a public viewing and an honor guard ceremony at City Hall.
