Bill Clay Sr., Congressional Black Caucus Founding Member and Missouri Civil Rights Icon, Dies at 94

July 17, 2025

William Lacy Clay Sr. , Missouri's first Black congressman and a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, has died at age 94. During his 32-year tenure in the House of Representatives, Clay championed labor rights, education, and social justice while serving continuously on the Education and Labor Committee.

Who is affected

The Clay family, including his son William Lacy Clay Jr.
The Congressional Black Caucus
Missouri's 1st District constituents
Black politicians and civil rights leaders
Federal employees (through his Hatch Act reforms)
Workers who benefit from the Family and Medical Leave Act

What action is being taken

Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette Clarke and other political figures are publicly commemorating Clay Sr.'s legacy and contributions
Missouri Rep. Wesley Bell is carrying Clay's example in his congressional service
Clay's work and influence continue to serve as a foundation for current Black leadership in public service

Why it matters

Clay made history as Missouri's first Black congressman in 1968
He was one of 13 founding members of the Congressional Black Caucus
He served 32 years in Congress, championing labor rights, education, and social justice
His legislative accomplishments include reforming the Hatch Act and helping pass the Family and Medical Leave Act
He helped establish a foundation for future generations of Black political leadership
His son continued his legacy, representing the same district for 20 years

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer