Official Statement from the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. on the Passing of Former Congressman William Lacy “Bill” Clay Sr.

[Washington] July 21, 2025 — It is with deep sorrow that the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. mourns the passing of former Congressman William Lacy “Bill” Clay Sr., a pioneering civil rights leader, a champion for justice, and a tireless advocate for Black communities across the nation. Congressman Clay passed away at the age of 94, leaving behind a powerful legacy of public service, courage, and transformational leadership.

A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Bill Clay made history as the state’s first African American member of Congress, representing Missouri’s 1st Congressional District from 1969 to 2001. For more than three decades, he stood as a fearless voice for equity, civil rights, labor, and education—earning national recognition as one of the founding members of the Congressional Black Caucus and as a bold architect of progressive change in Washington.

Before his time in Congress, Clay made headlines in the early 1960s as a St. Louis Alderman and civil rights organizer. In 1963, he led the Jefferson Bank protests, standing up against discriminatory hiring practices that excluded Black tellers from newly integrated financial institutions. His activism during that period—despite resulting in jail time—set the tone for a life dedicated to advancing justice, opportunity, and dignity for the Black community.

Throughout his congressional career, Congressman Clay was a relentless advocate for workers’ rights, environmental justice, and social equity. He led efforts to raise the minimum wage, championed the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, expanded political rights for federal workers through his work on the Hatch Act, and secured funding for historically Black colleges and universities. He was a masterful legislator and strategist whose influence helped shape some of the most important civil rights and labor protections of the modern era.

“Congressman Bill Clay was a giant whose legacy continues to shape the Black political landscape and inspire generations of leaders,” said Ron Busby Sr., President & CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. “His courageous spirit, strategic mind, and unwavering commitment to justice made him one of the most impactful voices in Congress. We are indebted to his service and leadership, which not only opened doors for Black Americans in politics but made this nation more just, more fair, and more free.”

As we reflect on the life and work of Congressman Clay, we remember a man who carved a path where none existed and left behind a blueprint for generations to come. He was a visionary, a fighter, and a beloved leader who never stopped pushing for progress.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Clay family, the people of Missouri, and all who were touched by his remarkable life.

May his legacy continue to guide us. May he rest in peace.