The Reverend Jesse Jackson, a towering figure in the American Civil Rights Movement and a two-time presidential candidate, has died at the age of 84. His passing, announced on Tuesday, marks the end of an era for a man who spent decades fighting for social and economic justice.
Jackson had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in , and more recently, in , was also found to be living with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare and accelerated neurodegenerative disease. He died peacefully at his home in Chicago, surrounded by family, according to a statement released by the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
Born on , Jackson’s influence on U.S. Politics extended far beyond holding elected office. He rose to prominence as a close protégé of Martin Luther King Jr., participating in the pivotal 1964 march for Black voting rights in Selma, Alabama. Their relationship, though lasting only three years, profoundly shaped Jackson’s commitment to non-violent activism and social change. He often described King as a “universal frame of reference for moral authority.”
Through initiatives like Operation Breadbasket and PUSH (People United to Save Humanity), Jackson mobilized African Americans to register to vote and pressured corporations to hire and invest in underserved communities. He was known for his powerful and rhythmic oratory, captivating audiences with speeches filled with alliteration, and rhyme.
Jackson twice sought the Democratic presidential nomination, mounting significant campaigns in and . While he did not secure the nomination, his candidacies were groundbreaking, winning 15 Democratic primary contests across both attempts. He was preceded as a Black presidential candidate by Channing Phillips () and Shirley Chisholm (), but his campaigns achieved a level of success previously unseen, paving the way for future generations.
His 1984 campaign, despite facing challenges, demonstrated his ability to galvanize support. As New York Governor Mario Cuomo observed at the time, Jackson achieved significant traction “without two cents” and “without one television or radio ad.” In , he delivered a stirring address at the Democratic National Convention, articulating a vision of a “Rainbow Coalition” – a diverse alliance of Americans united by common ground and a commitment to investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
“We find common ground at the hospital admitting room, where somebody tonight is dying because they cannot afford to go upstairs to a bed that’s empty waiting for someone with insurance to get sick,” he told the convention audience. “We are a better nation than that. We must do better.”
Jackson’s activism extended beyond electoral politics. He was a vocal advocate for various causes, from striking coal miners to professional athletes, and often found himself at the center of controversial issues. He was arrested twice in for protesting Senate filibuster rules, demonstrating his continued commitment to fighting for voting rights.
He also engaged in international diplomacy, often acting as a de facto mediator in sensitive situations. He met with world leaders, including Fidel Castro of Cuba and Yasser Arafat of the Palestine Liberation Organization, and successfully negotiated the release of American citizens and service members held hostage overseas on at least four occasions. In , he secured the release of 47 Americans held in Kuwait after meeting with Saddam Hussein.
Jackson’s career was not without its controversies. In , his presidential campaign was marred by an antisemitic remark, for which he later apologized. Later, his son, Jesse Jackson Jr., faced legal troubles and was sentenced to prison in for misusing campaign funds.
Despite these challenges, Jackson remained a prominent voice for social justice. He was present at the forefront of movements addressing racial inequality, including the aftermath of the Rodney King beating in and the deaths of Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown. He continued to advocate for change even as he battled his illnesses.
His influence was evident in , when he was visibly moved to tears as he watched Barack Obama deliver his victory speech after becoming the first African American president of the United States. Jackson reflected on the significance of the moment, acknowledging the sacrifices of those who came before, including Martin Luther King Jr. And Medgar Evers.
Jackson’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment to the marginalized and a relentless pursuit of a more just and equitable society. He leaves behind a profound impact on American politics and a continuing call to action for those who seek to build a better future. His passing comes at a time of rising white nationalism and ongoing debates over voting rights, underscoring the enduring relevance of his life’s work.
