Tributes are pouring in for Pastor Jesse Jackson, Sr., who died Tuesday at the age of 84.
The civil rights leader, Baptist minister, and founder of the Chicago non-profit Rainbow PUSH Coalition has been a lifelong champion of social justice, human rights, and equality.
A key figure in the civil rights movement alongside Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson began with college sit-ins and protests, and later ran for the Democratic presidential nomination twice. He campaigned for equality and justice into his eighties, seeking equality and diversity across society, including technology.
Mahalia Jackson sings “We Shall Overcome” with Rev. Martin Luther King, Jesse Jackson, and Albert Raby, Aug. 4, 1966.
Credit: Ray Foster/Chicago Tribune/Tribune News Service via Getty Images
According to a statement released by his family, Jackson died peacefully surrounded by loved ones, saying:
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His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights helped shape the global movement for freedom and dignity. A tireless agent of change, he raised 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.
Our father was a servant leader – not only in our family, but to the downtrodden, the voiceless, and the neglected around the world. We shared him with the land, and in return, the land became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love lifted up millions, and we ask that you honor his memory by continuing to fight for the values he lived by.
According to a family statement, Jackson is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, children Santita, Jesse Jr., Jonathan, Yusef, Jacqueline, daughter Ashley Jackson, and their grandchildren.
The Internet has also begun to mourn Jackson’s passing, with civil rights activists, politicians, celebrities, and others sending tributes.
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People also celebrated one of Jackson’s most influential and popular skills, storytelling, by sharing some of his most memorable speeches and appearances.
Many have started posting videos of Jackson’s iconic song “I Am – Somebody” that echoed his ’70s performances.
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Details of the services, including public reminders, will be shared by the Rainbow PUSH Coalition at website again JesseJacksonLegacy.com.
