Story highlights Members of the Congressional Black Caucus called for more gun control legislation

The Republican-controlled Congress hasn't moved through legislation regarding guns

Washington (CNN) Black lawmakers delivered an emotional and sometimes searing plea for gun control Friday in response to the Dallas killings, calling the suspected gunman a "terrorist" and openly weeping at times as they railed against gun violence.

Rep. John Lewis, a civil rights icon who led a sit-in for gun control measures on the House floor just two weeks ago, as well as Rep. Robyn Kelley, wept during the news conference called by the Congressional Black Caucus on Friday. Rep. Cedric Richmond, a Louisiana Democrat, accused Republicans of "the devaluation" of minorities by not taking up gun control legislation.

"I would have to say today is the angriest I've ever been while addressing the public and the media. And I share the anger of our young kids. When we look at this Congress, we can do nothing but conclude they are co-conspirators in the de-valuation of the lives of men and women of color," Richmond said Friday.

Members of the caucus -- including many involved in the House sit-in seeking gun control -- said Friday the answer to the Dallas shootings must be new limits on gun sales, increased money for police training, and meetings between local leaders and Justice Department officials.

"We are continuing our fight to remove guns from the hands of would-be terrorists and criminals and require background checks for those seeking to purchase firearms. We need legislative action now!" said CBC chairman Rep. G.K. Butterfield. The morning news conference was delayed after the Capitol was briefly placed on lockdown

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