Ohio’s 1st Black Congressman, Louis Stokes, Dies At 90

A 15-term Ohio congressman who took on tough assignments looking into assassinations and scandals has died.

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As a practicing lawyer, he participated in three cases in the U.S. Supreme Court, including arguing the landmark “stop and frisk” case of Terry v. Ohio. After three years of service in the U.S. Army, Stokes returned to Cleveland and attended Western Reserve University.

“Congressman Lou Stokes loved life and loved his family”.

Perhaps the largest part of Stokes’ legacy is his role in helping to found the Congressional Black Caucus in 1971, with its mission of serving “as the voice for people of color and vulnerable communities in Congress”.

He spoke often of his admiration for his younger brother, who served two terms as Cleveland mayor and was later a broadcaster and judge.

The White House issued a statement from President Barack Obama that noted how Stokes overcame hardships while growing up in Cleveland and praised him for his belief that everyone should have a chance to succeed.

Stokes was educated in Clevaland’s Public School system, graduating from Central High School.

Born in 1925 in Cleveland, Stokes rose from the housing projects and was persuaded to run for office by his brother, using his position to increase opportunities for African Americans, according to a House website. “Cleveland, Ohio and America are stronger for his service and I hope reflecting on that can inspire future leaders at a time when we need to come together more as a country”. He became a mentor and dear friend, and I felt deeply privileged to work under his leadership on our subcommittee.

Last month, a family spokesman released a statement revealing that Stokes was battling lung and brain cancer.

He was the dean of the delegation until he stepped down in 1999.