History
In 1969, Henry E. Frye became the first African-American to serve in the General Assembly, and is most known as a trailblazer among Black politicians in North Carolina. In 1984, years after Mr. Frye paved the way for Black legislators, The North Carolina Legislative Black Caucus was formally organized to promote Legislative policies and actions responsive to all North Carolinians, especially African Americans. After its inception, the caucus was mainly responsible for getting the legislature to approve a bill making Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday a state holiday. The caucus also emerged as the chief lobbyist and protector of the Historically Black campuses of the University of North Carolina system. Later, the Caucus saw the need for programs for African American youth and as a result, the NC Legislative Black Caucus Foundation was formed. Over the years, the caucus has made a tremendous effort to improve its effectiveness. Today nine senators and twenty-one house members make up the NC Legislative Black Caucus; with the positive momentum of both a new presidential and gubernatorial administration, the NC Legislative Black Caucus will continue the legacy of working to make a difference in the quality of life for working families, the poor, elderly, children, and so many who seldom have a voice in their state government.