Former Democratic Presidents Remember the Late Rev. Jesse Jackson During Final Public Tribute

March 9, 2026

Thousands gathered at a Chicago church for a five-hour public memorial celebrating the life of civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. , who died at age 84 after battling a neurological disorder.

Who is affected

Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr.'s family, including sons Jesse Jackson Jr. and Yusef Jackson
Black Americans and underrepresented communities who benefited from Jackson's civil rights advocacy
Attendees like marketing professional Chelsia Bryan and 90-year-old Mary Lovett who were inspired by Jackson's work
Political leaders including former Presidents Obama, Clinton, and Biden who credited Jackson with influencing their careers
The Rainbow PUSH Coalition organization that Jackson founded
Voters and activists motivated by Jackson's legacy to continue social justice work

What action is being taken

A public tribute and memorial service is being held at an influential Black church in Chicago
Grammy-winning gospel singers and Jennifer Hudson are performing at the celebration
Vendors are selling commemorative pins and hoodies with Jackson's presidential slogan and mantras
Yusef Jackson is running the Rainbow PUSH Coalition
Television screens are playing excerpts of Jackson's famous speeches

Why it matters

Jackson's legacy represents decades of tireless advocacy for civil rights, voting rights, healthcare access, job opportunities, and education for marginalized communities. His presidential campaigns in the 1980s broke barriers and demonstrated that Black candidates could compete at the highest political levels, directly inspiring future leaders like Barack Obama. Through the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Jackson pressured corporations to create more equitable practices and opportunities, fundamentally changing how businesses address diversity and inclusion. His death marks the loss of a direct link to the Martin Luther King Jr. era of civil rights activism, making it crucial that his work and message continue through subsequent generations who must carry forward his commitment to justice and equality.

What's next

A final homegoing service is scheduled for Saturday at Rainbow PUSH Coalition
Speakers called for attendees to continue Jackson's work by speaking out against injustice and voting in the midterms
Rev. Al Sharpton urged attendees to take home the "Jackson fire" and recognize their own assignments to continue his mission

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