On February 17, 2026, the United States and the world paused to mourn the loss of Reverend Jesse Jackson, a man whose tireless dedication to justice left an enduring mark on American society. Rev. Jackson's life and his passing at the age of 84 remind us of the progress made and work still to be done for equality and fairness in America. For more than six decades, Jackson stood on the front lines of civil rights activism, working alongside fearless leaders, creating organizations to uplift marginalized communities, and using his voice to inspire generations to stand up for what is right.
Jackson's journey from humble beginnings in Greenville, South Carolina, to becoming a global symbol of hope and justice, touched countless lives. As we reflect on his storied legacy, we remember not only his well-known speeches and marches, but also the everyday moments of compassion and encouragement that defined his leadership. By exploring his key achievements—from his partnership with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., to his groundbreaking presidential campaigns, historic TV appearances, and public service—we honor the life of a man who always believed that everyone could make a difference.
A Leader for Civil Rights
Jesse Jackson began his work in the civil rights movement as a young man. Drawn to the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson considered King a mentor and friend. He became part of King’s inner circle and joined him for many important marches, including the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march for voting rights, an event that helped secure the Voting Rights Act. Jackson’s commitment impressed King, who saw him as a “natural-born leader.” In 1966, King appointed Jackson to lead Operation Breadbasket, an initiative in Chicago focused on creating economic opportunities for Black communities. Under Jackson’s leadership, Operation Breadbasket successfully pressured companies to hire more Black workers and invest in minority-owned businesses.
Tragically, Dr. King was assassinated in 1968 in Memphis, Tennessee. Jackson, who was with King in Memphis during his final days and at the Lorraine Motel when King was shot, stepped up to carry forward the movement. Newspapers and activists immediately began to describe Jackson as King’s successor, with Jackson determined to keep the civil rights movement going even as he mourned the loss of his mentor.
One of Jackson’s most enduring legacies was his commitment to voting rights. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he traveled the country encouraging people—especially those in marginalized communities—to register to vote. He understood that voting was a critical tool for change and worked tirelessly to remove barriers that kept people from casting their ballots. In 1982 and 1986, his efforts contributed to the successful extension and expansion of the Voting Rights Act, helping millions exercise their right to vote.
The Rainbow/PUSH Coalition
Realizing that civil rights needed a broader approach, Jackson founded People United to Save Humanity (PUSH) in 1971. The group focused on promoting economic empowerment, educational opportunities, and social justice for Black Americans and other minorities. Jackson’s PUSH program worked to increase Black employment and business contracts in major cities, as well as to raise funds and resources for struggling families.
In 1984, Jackson created the National Rainbow Coalition to unite people from different backgrounds, races, and beliefs for common goals like peace, justice, and equal opportunity. Combining his two organizations in 1996, he formed the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition. The group fought for civil rights, voter registration, healthcare access, fair housing, and economic justice for all Americans. The Rainbow/PUSH Coalition remains active today, continuing Jackson’s work to uplift the overlooked and bring people together through collective action.
A Voice for Everyone
Understanding the importance of reaching future generations, Jackson made several appearances on television to spread his message beyond politics and rallies. One of his most memorable appearances was on the children’s program Sesame Street. There, Rev. Jackson recited the uplifting poem, “I am – somebody!” This moment, which first aired in 1972, encouraged kids of all backgrounds to value themselves, building self-esteem and inspiring young people to stand tall and strong.
Running for President
Jesse Jackson broke new ground in American politics when he ran for the Democratic nomination for president in 1984 and again in 1988. He was the second African American to run a nationwide campaign for president (after Shirley Chisholm in 1972), and his campaigns inspired millions of people who had never before seen someone who looked like them running for the highest office in the country. In 1984, Jackson won 3.5 million votes and helped register over a million new voters, expanding participation in the political process.
His 1988 campaign was even more successful: Jackson won several Democratic primaries and caucuses, finishing second in the delegate count. Although he was not chosen as the Democratic nominee, his campaigns proved that a Black candidate could be a serious contender for the presidency. Many historians believe that Jackson’s trailblazing efforts helped pave the way for future leaders like Barack Obama, who was elected as the nation’s first Black president in 2008.
Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom
For his extraordinary dedication to justice and equality, President Bill Clinton awarded Rev. Jackson the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000. This is one of the highest honors an American civilian can receive. The award recognized Jackson’s decades-long fight against racism, his work for economic opportunity, and his efforts to create a more just society.
Calm in a Time of Crisis
Even in his later years, Rev. Jackson continued to serve and protect his community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he publicly received his vaccination early and shared his personal battle when he was hospitalized with severe COVID-19 in 2021. By taking the vaccine and speaking out about it, Jackson encouraged other Black Americans, who have historically faced mistrust in the medical system, to get vaccinated for their own safety and the common good. He often said that true leadership means protecting others in good times and hard times alike.
As we honor Rev. Jackson’s legacy, we are reminded that each person has the power to stand up for fairness and dignity. His message lives on, encouraging us to keep moving forward, caring for one another, and working toward a world where everyone is somebody.
