Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. to Lie in State in South Carolina After Capitol Hill Dispute

March 2, 2026

Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. , the influential civil rights leader and former presidential candidate, will lie in state at South Carolina's State House Rotunda on March 2 following his death at age 84 on February 17.

Who is affected

Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. and his family, including his widow Jacqueline Jackson
South Carolina residents and officials, including Governor Henry McMaster and State Representative Grant Hamilton
The Rainbow PUSH Coalition organization that Jackson founded
Congressional Democratic leaders, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Congressional Black Caucus
Members of the public who wish to pay respects
Students and choirs from Allen University and Benedict College

What action is being taken

Governor McMaster ordered all flags at the South Carolina State House lowered to half-staff on March 2
A memorial caravan is transporting Jackson's body from Chicago to South Carolina
Public ceremonies are being held at the State House Rotunda beginning at 10 a.m. on March 2
Public visitation is taking place from 11:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
A church service is being held at 6 p.m. at Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia

Why it matters

Rev. Jesse Jackson was a transformative civil rights leader who bridged the Jim Crow era to modern American politics, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of Black elected leaders. His decades of activism through the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and his moral leadership on justice and equality issues made him a mentor to current political leaders. The decision to honor him in South Carolina after the Capitol denial has become symbolic of ongoing political tensions around recognizing civil rights achievements, with Democratic leaders viewing it as part of broader attacks on civil rights and voting rights.

What's next

Following the State House ceremonies and public visitation ending at 4:30 p.m., a church service will be held at 6 p.m. at Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia. Representative Grant has called on younger voters and leaders to continue Jackson's legacy by picking up "the mantle and baton and keep running the race."

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint