The Congressional Black Caucus and Foreign Policy (1971-2002)

The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) has been involved in the shaping of foreign and domestic policy issues since 1971, although it is more known for the role it has had in domestic affairs. As a minority within Congress, in order to be recognised and dealt with, the CBC has worked in coalition with other Members to achieve some of its aims. A certain pragmatism and willingness to give some leeway has been necessitous -- yet often times CBC members will risk arrest by protesting US...
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The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) has been involved in the shaping of foreign and domestic policy issues since 1971, although it is more known for the role it has had in domestic affairs. As a minority within Congress, in order to be recognised and dealt with, the CBC has worked in coalition with other Members to achieve some of its aims. A certain pragmatism and willingness to give some leeway has been necessitous -- yet often times CBC members will risk arrest by protesting US foreign policy to call attention to its own agenda. For the most part, the issues that the Caucus has dealt with in areas of foreign policy were: (1) During the 1970's, African issues and particularly southern Africa, (2) by the 1980's, broadened to include Haiti and Haitian refugees, other Caribbean issues and defence budget. This comprehensive book shows the CBC's 25 year struggle to sway US foreign policy in order to achieve a favourable outcome of its goals. Some of the successes that the CBC is responsible for are the Rhodesia and South African sanctions, aid to Africa, as well as favourable change in Haiti. Major challenges that the CBC faces in years to come, are also discussed.