For Immediate Release
October 8, 2025
Media Contact
Yolanda Raine
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
202-809-2011
media@cbcfinc.org
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) mourns the passing of former U.S. Representative Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, a distinguished public servant, educator, and trailblazer whose impact continues to shape our nation and this Foundation.
Congresswoman Kilpatrick’s journey from the classrooms of Detroit to the halls of Congress embodied a lifelong commitment to service, education, and equity. A proud daughter of Detroit, she began her career as a public-school teacher before dedicating nearly two decades to the Michigan House of Representatives, where she made history as the first Black woman to serve on the powerful Michigan House Appropriations Committee. Her leadership and advocacy opened doors for countless others to follow.
Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1996, Congresswoman Kilpatrick faithfully served the people of Michigan’s 15th and later the 13th Congressional Districts for 14 years. Guided by her deep commitment to economic empowerment, educational opportunity, and global engagement, she carried her passion for service from the Michigan State House to the halls of Congress. As a respected member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, she championed initiatives that strengthened communities in her beloved Detroit and expanded opportunities for underserved populations both at home and abroad.
As Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus from 2007 to 2009, she led with integrity and vision, ensuring that the voices and concerns of Black Americans were heard at the highest levels of government. Her enduring legacy also lives on through the Sojourner Truth Legacy Project, which she founded under the CBCF to honor and empower Black women leaders in public service – a program that continues to inspire generations of changemakers.
The CBCF extends our deepest condolences to her children, Ayanna and Kwame Kilpatrick, and to the entire Kilpatrick family. Congresswoman Kilpatrick’s life was a testament to purpose, perseverance, and profound love for her community. We honor her contributions and celebrate a life that uplifted so many.
May her legacy continue to guide us, and may she rest in eternal peace and power.
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About the CBCF
Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org. As a 501(c)(3), the CBCF takes no position on legislation or regulatory matters before Congress or any other government agency.