The family of Rev. Jesse Jackson has announced the passing of the renowned civil rights leader, minister, and former U.S. presidential candidate at the age of 84.
Rev. Jackson, a charismatic Baptist minister raised in the segregated American South, was a prominent figure in the modern civil rights movement and a close associate of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. Throughout his decades of public service, he championed the rights of Black Americans and other marginalized communities, becoming one of the most recognizable and influential voices for social justice in the United States.
In a family statement released Tuesday, they described him as “a servant leader — not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world.”
Rev. Jackson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2017 but remained a respected elder statesman of the civil rights movement. His death comes during a period of national debate over civil rights legacy and historical representation in the United States, amid policy shifts under President Donald Trump that critics say could affect decades of social progress.
A masterful orator and skilled organizer, Rev. Jackson rose to national prominence during the turbulent 1960s civil rights era. He later founded Chicago-based organizations Operation PUSH and the National Rainbow Coalition to advance economic empowerment, voter registration, and social justice initiatives.
In the political arena, Rev. Jackson made history with two groundbreaking campaigns for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988. Though he did not secure the nomination, his campaigns mobilized millions of voters and expanded the political influence of African Americans and progressive coalitions nationwide. His efforts paved the way for future generations of leaders, including fellow Chicagoan Barack Obama, whose 2008 election marked a historic milestone in American politics.
During the 1990s, Rev. Jackson served as special envoy to Africa under President Bill Clinton. He also played a key diplomatic role in securing the release of American and international detainees held overseas in countries including Syria, Cuba, Iraq, and Serbia.
Despite facing controversies during his long public career, Rev. Jackson remained a towering figure in American civic life, known for his resilience, persuasive advocacy, and enduring commitment to equality.
Funeral arrangements and memorial details will be announced by the family in due course.
