Reverend Jesse Jackson, the Baptist Minister and Civil Rights Activist, has died at the age of 84, his family has said.
Jackson Family Statement on the Passing of Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Civil Rights Leader and Founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Honorable Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr.
He died peacefully on Tuesday morning, surrounded by his family. His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights helped shape a global movement for freedom and dignity. A tireless change agent, he elevated the voices of the voiceless—from his Presidential campaigns in the 1980s to mobilizing millions to register to vote—leaving an indelible mark on history.
Reverend Jackson is survived by his wife, Jacqueline; their children — Santita, Jesse Jr., Jonathan, Yusef, Jacqueline; daughter Ashley Jackson, and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Burns Jackson; father, Noah Louis Robinson; and stepfather, Charles Henry Jackson.
"Our father was a servant leader — not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world,” said the Jackson family. “We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by.”
Public observances will be held in Chicago. Final arrangements for Reverend Jackson's celebration of life services, including all public events, will be released by the Rainbow PUSH Coalition at www.rainbowpush.org or JesseJacksonLegacy.com.
Keep Hope Alive and Continue His Legacy. For those wishing to contribute, you can make a tax-deductible donation to the Jackson Family Foundation’s Legacy Fund.
#ThankYouForFighting🇺🇸🫡
Having followed Reverend Jesse Jackson's work for many years, I can personally attest to the transformative influence he had on civil rights in America and beyond. His efforts, especially during the 1980s presidential campaigns, showed not only his political ambition but also his dedication to giving a platform to the marginalized. Beyond politics, his founding of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition created a sustainable movement focused on social justice, economic opportunity, and human rights, which still thrives today. What truly set Jackson apart was his ability to connect on a grassroots level—he motivated millions to register to vote, recognizing that political participation is key to societal change. His legacy is particularly inspiring for younger generations interested in activism. Observing how public observances and tributes are taking place in Chicago highlights the profound respect and love communities have for him. Moreover, Jackson's role as a servant leader extended beyond activism; he was a family man surrounded by loved ones whose stories remind us of the personal sacrifices behind public figures. The call from his family to continue his fight for justice and equality is a powerful reminder that his work is ongoing and invites us all to contribute. For those inspired by his life, supporting the Jackson Family Foundation’s Legacy Fund is a meaningful way to keep his vision alive. Revering his memory is not only about honoring the past but also embracing the responsibility to advocate for freedom and dignity for all.
RIP Rev. Jesse Jackson your legacy lives on 💜💜💜🙏