By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Analyst

Jan. 17, 2009 – It’s official: the newly appointed African-American Sen. Roland Burris (D-Ill.) is not only a member of the Senate, but is now a member of the Congressional Black Caucus.  And like his predecessor the only Black lawmaker in the Senate. 

California Rep. Barbara Lee (D), chairwomen of the caucus and I spoke Friday and she told me following Burris’s swearing Wednesday:  “I invited him and he accepted,” she said. 

Lee had authored a letter early in the week on behalf of lawmakers requesting Burris be sworn-in.  While the controversy of his appointment was centered on embattled Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, the caucus felt the appointment was valid and  Burris should be seated.

The 111th Congress will mark a historical number of Black lawmakers’ in House leadership positions.   Fifteen subcommittee chairs and four committees will be chaired by African-American.  “It’s our moment – and our agenda continues to be the conscience of the Congress,” Lee told me.   

Lee said the swearing in of the 44th president will take place just as the caucus celebrates its 40th anniversary.  “We’ll continue on the mission of equity and justice,” she said.

  On a personal note, Lee said as President Barack Obama is being sworn in, she can’t help but remember those who made it possible.  “Obama didn’t just happen overnight, our ancestors before us made it possible” she said.

“My mom couldn’t enter the hospital to deliver me; growing up during segregation I remember my father, a member of the service, not being allowed in restaurants,” she re-called.  “This [inauguration] is an exciting moment – we owe them a debt of gratitude.”