Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chairman G. K. Butterfield (D-NC) released the following statement on the passing of prominent journalist and news anchor Gwen Ifill:
“Our hearts are deeply saddened upon hearing news of the sudden passing of renowned journalist Gwen Ifill. Regarded as one of the most prominent African American journalists in the country, Ms. Ifill began her news career in the 1970s during a time when there were very few African American and female journalists. She was a trailblazer in media and went on to serve as the moderator and managing editor of Washington Week and co-anchor and managing editor of the PBS NewsHour. She was also a bestselling author and moderator of two vice presidential debates.
“Ms. Ifill was among the nation’s finest political correspondents as she was gracious and poised when addressing some of the most pressing issues facing the country. Her voice will be missed among journalism and broadcasts, but her legacy will continue to have a lasting impact on how we view news and journalism today. We offer our sincere condolences to Ms. Ifill’s family, friends, followers and colleagues around the world.”
Since its establishment in 1971, Members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) have joined together to empower America’s neglected citizens and address their legislative concerns. For more than 40 years, the CBC has consistently been the voice for people of color and vulnerable communities in Congress and has been committed to utilizing the full Constitutional power and statutory authority of the United States government to ensure that all U.S. citizens have an opportunity to achieve the American Dream. To learn more about the Congressional Black Caucus, visit http://cbc-butterfield.house.gov.