Rev. Jesse Jackson, the fiery civil rights leader and former Democratic presidential hopeful, passed away early Tuesday morning at the age of 84 after fighting a long-term illness. His family shared the news, marking the end of an era for one of America’s most vocal advocates on race and equality issues.
Jackson had been in the hospital since November 12, dealing with progressive supranuclear palsy, a tough neurological disorder that mirrors Parkinson’s disease in many ways, according to reports from Breitbart News. Despite the hardship, he pushed forward with his public work.
He described his condition as a “physical challenge” but refused to step back from the spotlight, continuing to champion causes close to his heart.
Tragically, Jackson’s father, Noah Lewis Robinson Sr., also suffered from Parkinson’s and succumbed to it in 1997 at 88 years old, adding a personal layer to his own battle.
The Rainbow PUSH Coalition released a heartfelt statement on Instagram: “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.”
They added: “He died peacefully on Tuesday morning, surrounded by his family.”
Jackson’s journey in activism kicked off strong when he launched Operation PUSH in 1971, aiming to boost opportunities and strength in black communities across the nation.
He didn’t stop there, founding the National Rainbow Coalition in 1984.
In the 1990s, these two powerhouse organizations came together, forming the Rainbow PUSH Coalition that carried his message forward.
As a key figure alongside Martin Luther King Jr. during the turbulent 1960s, Jackson stood at the forefront of the civil rights movement, pushing for change amid massive unrest.
His efforts earned him the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing his impact on American society.
But Jackson’s ambitions reached even higher; he ran for president as a Democrat, shaking up the political scene with his bold style.
In his 1988 campaign, he made the phrase “Keep Hope Alive” a rallying cry.
Now, with his passing, public events are being planned in Chicago to honor his memory.
More details on celebrations of life will be revealed soon, giving supporters a chance to pay their respects to this enduring figure.
