Rev. Jesse Jackson, Civil Rights Icon and Two-Time Presidential Candidate, Dies at 84
A Legacy of Justice and Advocacy
Local leaders across the United States are paying tribute to the Rev. Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights leader and two-time presidential candidate who passed away at the age of 84. His family shared that he died peacefully on Tuesday morning, surrounded by loved ones. For several years, Jackson had been in declining health, with recent reports indicating that he was placed on life support in November 2025.
In a statement, his family highlighted his lifelong commitment to justice, equality, and human rights. “His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights helped shape a global movement for freedom and dignity,” they said. “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.”
Voices of Grief and Gratitude
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed her deep sorrow over the loss of Jackson. “I grew up watching Reverend Jesse Jackson lead a national movement that fought for justice for poor and working people. I am deeply saddened by his passing, but profoundly grateful for the example he set and the generation of leaders he inspired,” she said. Bass also noted that Jackson’s campaigns paved the way for the eventual election of President Barack Obama.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn also honored Jackson’s legacy. “Reverend Jesse Jackson was a giant of the civil rights movement who not only demanded change — he built the political power to pursue it,” she said. Hahn recounted how her father supported Jackson during the 1988 presidential campaign, highlighting the impact of his vision on generations of Americans.
A Moral Force for Change
The Los Angeles Urban League described Jackson as a transformative civil rights leader. Cynthia Mitchell-Heard, President and CEO of the organization, stated, “Rev. Jesse Jackson was more than a leader — he was a moral force.” She emphasized his role in challenging America to live up to its highest ideals and extending opportunity, dignity, and economic justice to all people.
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, currently running for governor, shared personal memories of Jackson on social media. “As a young organizer, the first presidential candidate I ever campaigned for was Jesse Jackson, whose courage and moral clarity inspired a generation to believe that our democracy could be more inclusive and more just,” he wrote.
A Mentor and Advocate
Los Angeles civil rights activist Najee Ali, leader of Project Islamic Hope, called Jackson his mentor and longtime friend. “Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson Sr. did not just witness history — he forced this nation to confront its conscience,” Ali said. He emphasized Jackson’s decades-long fight for justice, equity, and dignity for Black people, the poor, and the oppressed.
Earl Ofari Hutchinson, President of the Los Angeles Urban Policy Roundtable, acknowledged Jackson’s significant contributions to civil rights in Los Angeles. “Jesse Jackson led many battles against police abuse and job and housing discrimination in L.A. in years past,” he said.
A National Icon
Former Vice President Kamala Harris released a statement honoring Jackson. “Reverend Jesse Jackson was one of America’s greatest patriots,” she said. Harris reflected on how Jackson’s campaigns electrified millions of Americans and showed them what could be possible. She also recalled her own experiences with Jackson, including a bumper sticker on her car that read “Jesse Jackson for President.”
President Donald Trump praised Jackson as a “good man, with lots of personality, grit, and street smarts.” He described Jackson as someone who truly loved people.
A Life of Activism
Born in Greenville, South Carolina, Jackson was a protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He was at King’s side moments after the civil rights pioneer was assassinated in 1968. After King’s death, Jackson founded groups that would later merge into the Rainbow/PUSH organization, which promotes civil rights and political activism throughout the United States.
Jackson’s influence extended beyond politics. He negotiated the release of captured American pilots and advocated for voting rights, leading boycotts of companies for alleged discrimination. He also hosted the public affairs show “Both Sides with Jesse Jackson” on CNN from 1992 to 2000.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his achievements, Jackson faced controversies throughout his career. Some questioned the accuracy of his claim that King “died in my arms.” He also faced criticism for remarks about New York City being referred to as “Hymietown.” In 2001, news emerged that Jackson had an affair with a staff member, resulting in the birth of a daughter.
Jackson had five children with his wife Jacqueline Lavinia Brown. One of them, Jesse Jackson Jr., served in Congress until 2012. His oldest daughter, Santita Jackson, is a singer who performed the National Anthem at President Bill Clinton’s second inauguration.
Jackson stepped down as leader of Rainbow/PUSH in 2023 due to his age and health issues. His legacy, however, continues to inspire generations of activists and leaders.
